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Micheál Martin  ·  2026-09-18 00:00

Minister McEntee announces next step towards delivery of Military Radar Programme

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The Minister for Defence, Helen McEntee TD, confirmed that, under the Military Radar Programme, an Acquisition Order has now been signed with France which will see the delivery of long-range military radars.

In July, Minister McEntee secured Government approval for the first part of the Final Business Case which has now resulted in the Department of Defence signing an Acquisition Order with the procurement arm of the French Ministry for the Armed Forces (Ministère des Armées), the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA). This will see delivery of five deployable Thales long-range radar systems, commencing next year, with the full capability in place by the end of 2028.

I am committed to providing our Defence Forces with the equipment they need to ensure the safety and security of our state. Today is a further significant milestone in terms of delivery of the Military Radar Programme which was a key recommendation made by the Commission on the Defence Forces. Today’s announcement means we remain on track to deliver a complete Recognised Air Picture of Irish airspace by the end of 2028 which will very significantly enhance Ireland’s ability to protect our skies.