Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
178. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Defence if she will provide an update on the provision of an Integrated Communications and Hearing Protection System for the Defence Forces; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12486/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the capabilities of the Defence Forces are maintained, developed and enhanced in order to ensure that the Defence Forces can carry out all of the roles assigned to it by Government. A €20 million contract for the provision of an Integrated Communications and Hearing Protection System for the Defence Forces was awarded in 2025.
The new INVISIO system, which will be supplied by Thales UK Ltd, will allow Defence Forces’ personnel to communicate clearly, while also protecting their hearing from loud noises. Furthermore, it will transform the tactical and operational effectiveness of the Defence Forces, while ensuring the required levels of hearing protection during all stages of active service.
The INVISIO system is already in limited use in the Defence Forces, specifically by the Army Ranger Wing (since 2015) and by Defence Force personnel deployed as part of Ireland’s commitment to the European Union Battlegroup. In both cases, the system has demonstrated its capability and operational effectiveness.
The deliveries of Integrated Communications and Hearing Protection products commenced in Quarter 4 of 2025 and are ongoing, with further deliveries in Quarter 1 and 2 of 2026.
