Defence Forces

Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Ceisteanna (181, 185)

Shane Moynihan

Ceist:

181. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Defence for an update on the delivery of the Military Radar Programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12389/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

185. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence the measures being taken to resolve Defence Forces equipment deficits, as Ireland remains the only EU country without a sovereign military-grade primary radar system, leaving it unable to independently monitor its own airspace; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12110/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 181 and 185 together.

It is a key priority for me and for the government to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces is maintained and developed in line with the Government’s decision to move to Level of Ambition 2 (LOA2), as defined by the Commission on the Defence Forces (CODF). Considering Ireland's geographical location and island status, we all agree that military radar capabilities are essential.

The CODF recommended the development of a primary radar capability to ensure that Ireland can maintain a complete ‘Recognised Air Picture’, and that this should be an immediate and top priority. I can assure the Deputy that it is a top priority for my Department.

There are three elements to the Military Radar Programme: Land based Long Range Primary Radar; Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems, to include a Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capability; and Maritime (ship-borne) Radar.

This programme of work is ongoing and very good progress has been made.

When this programme is fully delivered, the Recognised Air Picture will incorporate this suite of military radar systems; which will have the capability to detect all aircraft traversing our airspace including any that may be operating with their transponders turned off.

My Department initially engaged with a large number of countries, including all EU Member States, to ascertain their interest in supporting Ireland to deliver this capability. Based on the responses received, bi-lateral discussions took place with a smaller number of countries last year, with a view to assessing options for delivery.

That phase of the process concluded towards the end of last year when the Preliminary Business Case for the Military Radar Programme was approved. This concluded that a Government-level approach with one country was the preferred option and, in line with this approach, my Department has commenced detailed negotiations with France on a potential agreement for the delivery of all capability requirements under the Programme.

Full delivery of the Programme will be complex; but has been prioritised with a target date of 2028 identified in the CODF Detailed Implementation Plan. That being said, elements of this capability will be rolled out in phases, starting in Q2 this year with a particular focus on Counter-UAS capabilities.