The United States government has authorized the potential sale of an additional batch of FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank missiles to equip the Irish Army. The notification, issued by the Department of State to the U.S. Congress for approval, complements a previous order made by the Irish government.
Despite Ireland’s historic stance of neutrality, reflected in its non-membership in NATO, similar to other European states like Switzerland and Austria, the Irish Defence Forces are undergoing a gradual modernization process and acquiring new equipment.
To highlight just a few examples, among the latest acquisitions made by Dublin is the purchase of new C295 transport and maritime patrol aircraft, complemented by H145M helicopters from the European consortium Airbus, aimed at renewing the capabilities of the Irish Air Corps.
According to information provided by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on April 23, the Irish government requested the purchase of additional FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank missiles, along with Light Command Launch Units (CLU).
In addition to a previous request valued at US$ 8.7 million, the current authorization issued by the Department of State includes the provision of a total of 44 anti-tank missiles and 36 CLUs for a total value of US$ 46 million, with the primary supplier being the joint venture formed by Lockheed Martin and RTX Corporation.
The Department of State has stated: “This proposed sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security by enhancing Ireland’s security and capabilities to support its participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions and in NATO’s Partnership for Peace program.”
They added: “The proposed sale will enhance Ireland’s ability to develop its long-term defense capabilities in order to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity and meet its national defense needs. Ireland will have no difficulty integrating this equipment into its armed forces.”
Finally, regarding this new batch of missiles to equip the Irish Army, it is likely that their incorporation responds to the operational requirements of the force, which integrates them into various units engaged in peacekeeping missions under the United Nations framework.
Among these, the presence of Irish personnel in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, with significant contributions since 1978, stands out. Other deployments, such as those in various parts of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, are also listed.
