Ireland is set to enhance its radar and subsea surveillance systems and deepen collaboration with NATO members, according to its first-ever maritime security strategy released on Wednesday. The move comes amid growing concerns over hybrid threats, including Russia’s alleged ‘shadow fleet’ of vessels suspected of espionage and sabotage.

Strategic Response to Rising Maritime Threats

The strategy highlights the importance of protecting Ireland’s territorial waters, which the government describes as a ‘nexus of major transatlantic data cables and critical energy interconnectors.’ Ireland, a historically neutral nation with the EU’s lowest defense spending, has faced criticism for its limited ability to monitor and defend these vital maritime routes.

The document notes that the country’s maritime security is under pressure from hybrid threats, including the use of Russian vessels for covert operations. Russia has denied any involvement in such activities.

Ireland’s Department of Defence outlined plans to increase cooperation with NATO members Britain and France, as well as participation in the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a grouping of 10 North Atlantic NATO states. The strategy describes these efforts as ‘vitally important’ in addressing the evolving security landscape.

Cooperation with NATO and the EU’s military powers is a sensitive topic in Ireland, where public support for military neutrality remains strong. However, the government has emphasized that it has no choice but to act to protect its economic and security interests.

Economic and Strategic Risks of Inaction

Prime Minister Micheal Martin underscored the potential economic consequences of inaction, stating in parliament that ‘if anything happened to gas connectors with Britain, we wouldn’t have an economy in 10 days.’ This highlights the critical role of maritime infrastructure in Ireland’s economic stability.

The strategy outlines plans to address ‘critical gaps’ in monitoring capabilities through the development of new radar, towed sonar, and sonobuoy systems over the next two years. Ireland also intends to explore space-based technologies and enhance participation in EU data-sharing initiatives.

The government has emphasized the use of emerging technologies such as uncrewed vessels and maritime drones to improve its maritime surveillance and response capabilities. These measures aim to modernize Ireland’s defense infrastructure in alignment with broader European and transatlantic security priorities.

Defense Spending and Future Plans

Ireland spent approximately 0.2% of its gross domestic product on defense in 2023, the lowest level in the European Union. This is significantly below the EU average of 1.3%, according to the latest statistics from the EU’s statistical service.

Despite a 2026 defense budget of 1.5 billion euros—nearly one-third higher than four years ago—the government has not announced plans to bring spending closer to the EU average. This has raised questions about the long-term sustainability of Ireland’s current defense posture in the face of increasing regional and global threats.

The strategy does not provide specific timelines or funding allocations for the proposed upgrades, leaving uncertainty about the pace of implementation. Analysts suggest that Ireland may face challenges in securing the necessary resources and international support to fully realize its maritime security goals.

With the North Atlantic’s strategic importance growing, Ireland’s decision to pursue closer cooperation with NATO members represents a significant shift in its defense policy. The coming years will be critical in determining how effectively the country can balance its traditional neutrality with the need for enhanced maritime security.