Photograph: Chris MaddaloniIreland and France have agreed to significantly increase security co-operation, including the sharing of classified intelligence and the joint procurement of military equipment, according to a new framework agreement. The France-Ireland Joint Strategic Framework 2026-2030 outlines planned co-operation in economic, cultural and environmental spheres while emphasising the need for increased collaboration on defence. The Government has also committed in principle to purchasing a €500 million military radar system from as yet unnamed French companies. There will be increased joint training exercises involving the two countries’ militaries and an emphasis on educational exchanges for troops. The agreement will see increasingly frequent meetings between the two countries’ defence ministers and the secretaries general of the departments of defence.

Source: The Irish Times February 26, 2026 10:31 UTC