Government pledges €300m for defence and anti-drone technology after Zelenskyy visit

Government ramps up defence spending, including €15m for anti-drone systems, after drones were detected near Zelenskyy’s flight

Taoiseach Micheál Martin with Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska and president Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Dublin Airport on Monday. The revelation that drones may have targeted Mr Zelenskyy's flight added impetus to calls to step up security measures. Picture: Liam McBurney/PA

The Government will inject €300m into defence equipment and infrastructure such as anti-drone technology next year, amid increasing concerns about defence capabilities following the visit to Ireland of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy. 

At least €15m will be spent on anti-drone technology, as justice minister Jim O’Callaghan said devices spotted operating near the flight path of Mr Zelenskyy were deployed to put “pressure” on Europe and Ukraine.