The planned drone initiative will represent the first component of an overall military radar programme. Photograph: iStockThe Government is expected to allocate between €15 million and €17 million next year as part of an accelerated programme to acquire technology to track and intercept drones. The military radar system is the Government’s key capital priority for the defence sector between 2026 and 2030. A number of security sources said the unprecedented event underlined the need for clearer protocols when rogue drones are spotted. The Irish Times reported last month that Tánaiste and then minister for defence Simon Harris had authorised officials to seek urgent delivery of a system to track and intercept drones.

Source: The Irish Times December 08, 2025 12:02 UTC