€1.7bn Defence Plan: What We Know So Far After Curragh Camp Launch

Thursday, 11 December 2025 13:04

By Martin Osborne - Head Of News

Minister for Defence Helen McEntee launched the programme during her first official visit to the Defence Forces Training Centre at the Curragh Camp.

The Government has unveiled a €1.7 billion Defence investment plan for 2026 to 2030.

Minister for Defence Helen McEntee launched the programme during her first official visit to the Defence Forces Training Centre at the Curragh Camp today.

She said the plan represents a €600 million, or 55 per cent, increase on previous levels.

She said the focus is on modernising capability across land, sea, air, cyber and infrastructure.

The Military Radar Programme will begin phased rollout in 2026 and will be fully delivered by 2028.

Counter-drone systems will receive accelerated investment ahead of Ireland’s EU Council Presidency in 2026.

Air Corps upgrades include new Airbus H145M helicopters, progress on acquiring eight Super Medium Helicopters, a new Falcon 6X aircraft and the planned replacement of the PC-9M fleet by 2030.

The Naval Service will receive new sonar and surveillance systems and life-extension work on the P60 vessels.

The Army will see upgrades to 80 MOWAG Piranha vehicles, movement on the armoured fleet replacement, new drones and modern radios.

Infrastructure will also get a boost.

€400 million is allocated for new accommodation, offices, gyms, hangars and naval facilities.

A further €175 million will support IT, transport, engineering and ordnance systems.

Updated governance and procurement oversight will sit alongside the plan.

Former Independent Kildare South TD and ex-Army Ranger Cathal Berry said the lack of investment to date in the Defence Forces has consequences.

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