Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
132. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Defence her views on the revised defence plan deadlines in the Detailed Implementation Plan for the transformation of the Defence Forces, which have been pushed out again by Government, which will result in major defence projects such as the anti-drone CUAS system being delayed again; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33408/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe updated Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces is a multi-annual plan setting out wide-ranging reform across every facet of the Defence Forces. Transformation efforts of this magnitude take time, and can only be successful if they are built on solid foundations.
I have confidence that the structures that have been put in place and progress to date will ensure the successful delivery of the transformation effort.
I am determined that through the Strategic Framework, and Detailed Implementation Plan, we will realise our shared ambition for the Defence Forces, accompanied by clear and irrefutable evidence of change on the ground for serving members.
The Defence capital investment allocation has increased by €159million (113%) since 2022 from €141 million in 2022 to an all-time high of €300m in 2026. The investment into our Defence Forces has never been more important and it is crucial that we recognise and prioritise the need to invest in defence equipment and infrastructure. This expenditure enhances and supports our military capabilities and contributes to a more secure and resilient society.
The funding provided for in 2026, and under the National Development Plan 2025-2030 will ensure that significant progress can also be made on key Defence Equipment projects, including the priority Military Radar Programme, accelerated procurement of Counter Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) capabilities, towed sonar capability, among others.
As the Deputy mentioned, some timelines have been adjusted due to the complexity of some of the steps that are necessary for meaningful transformation to take place, and to reflect the available capital funding now available under the National Development Plan.
The Military Radar Programme is a key priority and good progress is being made. When 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. Full delivery of the programme will be complex; but has been prioritised with elements to be rolled out in phases, starting in 2026, towards full delivery by the end of 2028.
I am confident that my Department, and the Defence Forces are ensuring that every recommendation of the Commission on the Defence Forces is being progressed as expeditiously as possible.
With Ireland assuming the Presidency of the EU from July this year, I have prioritised the delivery of Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities for the Defence Forces.
Contractual arrangements were put in place to enable delivery of these capabilities during the first half of this year and this is on schedule. In line with these arrangements, training of military personnel is well underway and the further roll-out of capabilities will continue to be accelerated this year.
