Ireland signs multi-million-euro deal for French radar and air-defence systems

The Irish Government signed acquisition orders for a multi-million-euro primary radar project with a French arms maker, following a government-to-government procurement approach. The €300-€500 million programme includes three components: land-based long-range primary radars, ground-based air-defence and anti-drone systems, and maritime radars for the navy. Five deployable Thales radars and air-defence weapons from MBDA will be purchased through the French Armed Forces Ministry and the Direction Générale de l’Armement.

Radar deliveries are expected to begin next year, reaching full capacity by the end of 2028, while the air-defence suite is already being delivered and will continue until 2029, supporting operations such as Fianna. The Defence Minister Helen McEntee completed the business case in July, and a formal announcement is planned for Friday. Locations for the maritime radars are still being evaluated.