- Government approved next phase of Military Radar Programme for first long-range military radars
- First radar systems expected 2027, full capability by end of 2028
- France selected as preferred partner through Direction Générale de l’Armement
- Radars will provide complete Recognised Air Picture of Irish airspace
- Work continuing on maritime radar capability and C-UAS delivery
The Government has approved the next phase of Ireland’s Military Radar Programme, clearing the way for the acquisition of the State’s first long-range military radar systems . The decision, announced by Minister for Defence Helen McEntee on 30th July 2026, allows the programme to progress into procurement and delivery . The first radar systems are expected to arrive in 2027, with full operational capability scheduled for completion by the end of 2028 .
For decades, Ireland has relied largely on civil aviation surveillance systems and information shared by international partners to monitor activity in its airspace . The new programme will provide the Defence Forces with a dedicated long-range primary military radar capability for the first time . According to the Department of Defence, the new radars will allow the Defence Forces to monitor activity across Irish airspace and contribute to a complete “Recognised Air Picture” of the country and its surrounding approaches . The Commission on the Defence Forces identified the project as an immediate priority .
Following Government approval of the Preliminary Business Case in 2025, France was selected as Ireland’s preferred partner for delivery of the programme . The Department of Defence and the Defence Forces have been working with the French defence procurement agency, the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), to advance the project . Work is continuing on the remaining elements of the Military Radar Programme, including the future development of maritime radar capability . Strong progress has also been made in developing ground-based air defence capability, including the accelerated delivery of Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency .
Helen McEntee shared: “Today’s decision is a major milestone for Ireland’s defence and security. For the first time, the Defence Forces will have the capability to monitor activity across Irish airspace using long-range radar. Together with new ground-based air defence capabilities, this will significantly strengthen Ireland’s ability to protect our skies.”
