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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 1 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 2

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Equipment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

157 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, he has regarding the availability of modern equipment and technology to the Permanent Defence Forces; if he has identified the budgetary needs in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9530/99]

In recent years considerable sums have been expended under the Defence Vote in updating military equipment for the Defence Forces. Total amounts spent on weapons, ammunition, transport, communications systems, and equipment for the Air Corps and Naval Service over the past four years are as follows: 1995 £18 million, 1996 £20 million, 1997 £31 million and 1998 £37 million.

It is estimated that approximately £55 million will be spent on those areas this year and will include the following major items: – a new fishery patrol vessel, due for delivery later this year; the supply of 16 new turrets and 16 fire directing systems for fitting to existing Panhard armoured cars. The first two turrets and two fire directing systems were delivered earlier this week and the balance is expected to be delivered towards the end of this year; a contract for the supply of up to 40 armoured personnel carriers. It is expected that a contract will be in place later this year and the first APCs should be delivered next year.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

158 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the average age of the equipment available to the Defence Forces to include vehicles, armaments and aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9531/99]

The statistics necessary to provide a comprehensive reply to the Deputy's question are not readily available. However, information in regard to major areas of equipment is set out as follows: Naval Service vessels approximate average age – 17 years; Air Corps aircraft approximate average age – 24 years; military transport approximate average age – 6 years.

Tactical VHF radio net equipment, which comprises a major part of military communications systems, was purchased during the past two years.

There is an ongoing policy of vehicle replacement based on the most economical service life of the vehicles. As regards Naval vessels an EU funded programme of half-life refitting has been in progress; five vessels have been completed to date and the two remaining in the fleet are due for refitting during 1999 and 2000.

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