Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 July 2023
65. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if work has commenced on the procurement of primary and coastal radar; if he will outline his plans for same; the projected budget for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34641/23]
View answerThe development of a primary radar capability was one of the key recommendations made in last year's report of the Commission on the Defence Forces. One of the Early Actions identified in the subsequent High Level Action Plan published in response to the Commission’s report, was to commence planning for military radar capabilities, which includes ground based, maritime and primary radar systems. In response to that, a project team, comprising senior civil and military personnel, was established and this year’s increased capital allocation for Defence includes funding to explore the development of this capability. Work carried out to date includes identification of requirements and research into various delivery options, as well as consideration of approaches internationally. This has included a visit to Cyprus to learn from our EU colleagues and work is ongoing.
Development of military radar capabilities is a key priority for me as Tánaiste and Minister for Defence and I am determined to ensure delivery within the earliest practicable timeframe.
