Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
263. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding Ireland’s preparedness for a significant drone attack on our airports or any other significant capital infrastructure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3461/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI, as Minister for Defence, am fully committed to ensuring that the State remains well protected against evolving security challenges, including the misuse of drones. Ireland’s arrangements in this area are grounded in a whole-of-Government approach, led by the competent authorities and supported, where appropriate, by the Defence Forces.
As the Deputy will be aware, primary responsibility for national security rests with An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice. The Defence Forces, in line with long-standing Government policy, provide specialist support to An Garda Síochána under the Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) mechanism when specific capabilities are required. This framework allows for a coordinated and proportionate response to drone-related risks, including those posed by malicious actors or disruptive third parties.
I would emphasise that the relevant security agencies continuously assess threats and maintain established arrangements for responding to unauthorised drone activity. These matters are also considered regularly at senior level, including through the National Security Committee.
Strengthening Defence Forces capability is a key priority for this Government. Work is progressing at pace on the Military Radar Programme, which represents the most significant enhancement of the Defence Forces’ surveillance and airspace awareness capabilities in the history of the State. A dedicated civil-military team is advancing all three elements of the programme: long-range primary radar, ground-based air defence including Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS), and maritime radar. Elements of this capability will begin phased roll-out this year, ahead of the timeline for full programme delivery, with a particular focus on early delivery of C-UAS capabilities.
In addition, the Office of Emergency Planning within my Department manages the National Risk Assessment on a three-year cycle. In the most recent assessment, the disruptive use of drones was formally identified for the first time as a national-level risk. The Department of Transport is the designated lead for this risk, and my Department will engage closely with them and with other stakeholders to assist in their preparedness.
