Government clears path for purchase of long-range military radar system

Defence minister Helen McEntee said: 'Today’s decision is a major milestone for Ireland’s defence and security.' File picture: Brian Lawless/PA

The Government has cleared the way for the signing of acquisition orders with France for a new military radar system that defence experts have described as a top priority for the State.

Defence minister Helen McEntee said she expects the first elements of the radar capability to be operational next year, with the full system due to be completed by the end of 2028.

The Commission on the Defence Forces identified the development of a primary radar capability as an “immediate and top priority” in its 2022 report, which was subsequently adopted by the Government.

The commission said the acquisition of “primary radar, coastal radar, and associated systems” should provide a full “recognised air picture”.

This complete air tracking capability includes a long-range primary radar, ground-based air defence systems, and maritime radar.

'Ireland’s ability to protect our skies' 

Ms McEntee said: “Today’s decision is a major milestone for Ireland’s defence and security. We can now move ahead with acquiring our first long-range military radar systems."

She said it would enable the military to monitor activity across Irish airspace, adding: "Together with new ground-based air defence capabilities, this will significantly strengthen Ireland’s ability to protect our skies.” 

She said following Government approval of the preliminary business sase last year, France was selected as preferred partner to deliver the programme.

She said: “Today’s approval allows us to move to the next stage of our arrangements with France, including the early signing of acquisition orders. 

"I expect the first radar systems to be delivered next year, with the remaining capability delivered during 2028. This keeps us on track to deliver a complete recognised air picture by end of 2028.” 

Ms McEntee said her department has been working with the procurement arm of the French defence ministry to progress delivery.

She said they had progressed introduction of ground-based air defence capability, including counter-drone systems ahead of Ireland’s presidency of the EU.

'No interception aircraft'

The commission report highlighted how the air corps does not have interception aircraft to act on radar surveillance.

It said that the provision of primary radar is a "key enabler of an air policing capability but, at present, the air corps has only an embryonic intercept capability, limited to slow flying aircraft and helicopters". 

It said the lack of intercept capability had been described by the air corps as “a major gap” in the State’s overall defence capability.

The report said that under an alternative investment option, which was not accepted by the Government, the air corps would develop “an air combat and intercept capability” through the acquisition of a squadron of jet combat aircraft.

This would be supported by development of associated operational, infrastructure, and support arrangements.

• Cormac O’Keeffe, Security Correspondent