Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 April 2026
296. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Defence the level of investment being allocated to the modernisation of Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure; the timeline for the delivery of key capability upgrades; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29259/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Defence, strengthening capital investment in equipment and infrastructure is a core priority of mine. Under the revised National Development Plan, a total capital allocation of €1.7 billion was secured for the Defence Vote to 2030. This represented an increase of €600 million (55%) on the previous baseline of €1.1 billion. For 2026, the Defence capital allocation increased by €66 million (28%) to €300 million.
This level of investment supports the implementation of the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces, as set out in detail within the Updated Detailed Implementation Plan and Strategic Framework (2026). These documents identify the key priorities required to modernise and transform the Defence Forces, including the delivery of major equipment and infrastructure projects over the coming years.
Given the critically important need for robust radar capabilities to safeguard national security and ensure comprehensive awareness of activity across Ireland’s air and maritime domains, the progression of the Military Radar Programme remains an absolute priority for me in 2026.
Full delivery of the Military Radar Programme, comprising 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, has been prioritised with a target date of 2028 outlined in the updated CODF Detailed Implementation Plan. Elements of this capability will be rolled out in phases, starting this year with a particular focus on the development of C-UAS capabilities.
Other vitally important Defence projects set to advance in 2026 include Subsea Awareness, Software Defined Radio, and the acquisition of Light Utility Helicopters along with a wide range of other essential Force Protection equipment procurements.
Ongoing Defence Forces Infrastructural delivery enhances capability, personnel and organisational outcomes and has delivered positive benefits to military installations throughout the country. A number of important ongoing infrastructural projects set to progress significantly in 2026 include the development of the Cadet School HQ at DFTC, and the delivery of a new Medical Facility at Casement Aerodrome.
Further detail including expected delivery timelines related to the enhancement of key Defence Forces equipment and infrastructural capabilities are available on the updated Detailed Implementation Plan and Strategic Framework on the Government’s website [www.gov.ie].
