Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
148. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when two Airbus C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft delivered to the Air Corps in June and October of 2023, will reach full operational capacity and be available for Maritime Defence and Security Operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14035/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe introduction into service of an aircraft is a multi-phased process that comprises a number of steps before its full completion.
The Airbus C295 Marine Patrol Aircraft (MPA) fleet of two aircraft is currently at Initial Operating Capability (IOC) Level 1 for Maritime Defence and Security Operations (MDSO) in the Irish EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone), with both aircraft presently undertaking operational taskings.
The Air Corps are working towards achieving an expanded IOC Level 2 in the near-term future, which will result in increased availability of the aircraft for operations, with Full Operational Capability (FOC) to follow shortly thereafter.
