The Guardian – Russian presence in Irish waters underscores the fact that, rather than being out of sight and out of mind, the country is on the frontline.

The Journal – Ireland has signed a multi-million euro deal with French company Thales DMS for sonar for the Irish Naval Service which will be able to detect submerged submarines and help to protect subsea cables. 

(Thanks to Alain)

Irish Times – Ireland would find it very difficult to fully secure its maritime area, even with significantly increased naval capabilities, according to a United Nations expert on subsea security.

War on the Rocks – Ireland’s leaders should be encouraged and cajoled to spend the required 1.5 percent of real GDP on defense to fund maritime, land, and air forces capable of providing a reasonable military deterrent in relation to Ireland’s size and strategic importance, and in line with the requirements of neutral states.

Naval News – According to a Prior Information Notice issued by the Irish Department of Defence on January 23rd, the new vessel will provide the Irish Naval Service with a flexible platform, able to perform a variety of missions. In a first for the Naval Service, which has seldom deployed vessels overseas, the new MRV will be designed from the outset to support operations both at home and overseas. 

RUSI – Despite a ‘secret deal’ with the RAF, Ireland’s lack of adequate air and maritime defences leaves Europe vulnerable to surprise attacks. Efforts have been made to overcome this, but more can be done by involving neighbouring countries.

Irish Times – An advanced US naval ship which has been operating in Irish-controlled waters for four months with its transmitter turned off is causing concern among Irish defence officials.

(Thanks to Alain)

Irish Times – The Irish Naval Service is poised to welcome the latest additions to its fleet following the arrival today in Cork Harbour of two former New Zealand navy ships purchased by the Department of Defence for a total of €26 million.

(Thanks to Alain)

Breaking Defense – Ireland’s deputy prime minister this week explicitly ruled out developing antisubmarine warfare capabilities, despite facing fierce criticism over maritime weaknesses, an inability to independently protect undersea cables or prevent Russian naval exercises in Irish exclusive economic zone (EEZ) waters.

RUSI – Despite the threats to critical infrastructure such as undersea cables highlighted by the wider Ukraine conflict, Ireland’s military continues to struggle to retain staff, let alone expand its operations.

Irish Times – The Irish Navy has decommissioned a third of its fleet in one morning. Minister for Defence Simon Coveney said two replacement ships would arrive next year.

(Thanks to Alain)

Defense One – The action illustrates how the private sector can help governments respond to Russian gray-zone aggression.

Irish Examiner – The Naval Service is hoping to get permission to alter its regulations to entice more retired sailors back into the fold on a part-time basis to help alleviate the critical shortage of personnel.

(Thanks to Alain)

– Irish Times – The Naval Service has said it stands over the actions of the LÉ Niamh when it came under pressure from the Italian coastguard during a rescue of some 400 migrants in the Mediterranean in August 2015.