Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
97. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the reason Ireland’s €19 million anti-drone system which was initially intended to be in place in time for the EU presidency is now not expected to be in operation until September 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33419/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraWith 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.
Following Dáil approval on 3rd December 2025 of a Supplementary Estimate which provided for the accelerated procurement of C-UAS capabilities for use by the Defence Forces during the Presidency, 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.
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.
