Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 July 2014
130. Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Defence if his Department has investigated the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for patrolling Irish territorial waters rather than capital and labour intensive ships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30409/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Defence Forces currently operate an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System, (UAV) as an information-gathering asset which has no offensive capability. The UAV systems were acquired to enhance the capability of the Defence Forces to provide a low cost and low risk means to increase surveillance capabilities and intelligence gathering.
A Defence Forces naval vessel replacement strategy has been in progress since 2007. This investment strategy was underscored by the commitment in the 2000 White Paper on Defence to ensure an eight ship flotilla. This vessel replacement strategy combined with a continuous process of refurbishment and repair will ensure that the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a satisfactory level. The ongoing use and capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles is kept under review by the Defence Forces as to how they enhance and support military operations in a cost effective manner.
The forthcoming White Paper on Defence will address the future capability requirements for the Defence Forces encompassing the Army, Air Corps and the Naval Service.
