Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2026
182. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether her Department has conducted any assessment of capability gaps arising from the retirement of legacy aircraft prior to the full operational deployment of replacement platforms; if so, to provide details of such assessments; and the mitigation measures adopted. [27815/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe management of Defence Forces aviation capabilities is addressed as part of ongoing force-planning and capability development processes within the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces.
In this context, consideration is given, on a continuous basis, to the implications arising from the planned withdrawal of legacy aircraft and the introduction of replacement platforms. Such considerations form part of normal capability management arrangements and are informed by operational requirements, safety considerations, and the phased nature of capability development.
For reasons of operational and security sensitivity, it would not be appropriate to comment in detail on the content or outcomes of internal assessments, or on specific arrangements.
I am satisfied that appropriate arrangements are in place to manage the transition between aircraft platforms, and that capability requirements continue to be kept under review in line with Government policy and the assigned roles of the Defence Forces.
