Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
211. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Defence the procedures and actions to be implemented by Irish military personnel on their observations of suspect drone activities in Irish airspace; if this includes notification to Irish air traffic control; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12004/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraOne of my key priorities as Minister is to ensure that Defence Forces capabilities are maintained, developed and enhanced so that the organisation can meet all Government-assigned roles, including those that may arise as a result of drone incursions. The Defence Forces’ work in this space aligns with broader national security planning.
Work is well underway on the Military Radar Programme, which is a significant capability enhancement, and a priority for me as Minister. With Ireland assuming the Presidency of the EU from July this year, there is an urgent operational requirement to prioritise delivery of Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities for the Defence Forces.
Following Dáil approval on 3 December last of a Supplementary Estimate which provided for the accelerated procurement of C-UAS capabilities for use by the Defence Forces, contractual arrangements have been put in place to enable delivery of these capabilities during the first half of this year. In line with these arrangements, training of military personnel is already underway and the further roll-out of the required capabilities will continue to be accelerated this year.
With Ireland assuming the Presidency from July, for operational security reasons it would be inappropriate to make any further comment on this matter, at this time.
Question No. 212 answered with Question No. 187.
Question No. 213 answered with Question No. 164.
