Ireland is set to significantly deepen its naval co-operation with France and Britain, a move that could include allowing vessels from both nations to patrol Irish-controlled waters. This increased collaboration, outlined in the forthcoming National Maritime Security Strategy to be launched on Wednesday, aims to protect Irish waters and critical subsea infrastructure.
Enhanced Security Measures
The strategy prioritizes increased co-operation with European allies, working both directly and through organizations like Nato. A key component involves forging links with the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a UK-led maritime security alliance. While Ireland will not be seeking full membership in the JEF, it will participate in “JEF+”, a framework allowing for involvement in specific exercises and operations.
This expanded co-operation is largely driven by concerns surrounding the “Russia shadow fleet”—a network of hundreds of vessels reportedly used by Moscow to transport sanctioned oil. These vessels have been observed entering Irish economic waters and lingering near subsea cables, posing both a security and environmental risk due to their condition.
The Department of Defence will initiate discussions with JEF member states to facilitate access for the Irish Defence Forces. Ireland too intends to “maximise” opportunities for collaboration with Nato to improve “maritime domain awareness” and safeguard subsea infrastructure.
Increased co-operation with France and the UK will include the appointment of liaison officers to maritime security agencies in both countries. Security sources suggest this could lead to the stationing of French and UK vessels within Ireland’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), potentially including patrols and air defence support during the EU presidency.
Potential Legal Challenges
However, this increased co-operation may face legal scrutiny. Article 15 of the Irish Constitution stipulates that no military force, other than one established by the Oireachtas, can be maintained. A potential solution involves keeping foreign vessels outside Ireland’s territorial waters (extending 12 nautical miles) but within the broader EEZ.
The strategy also outlines plans to enhance Ireland’s own maritime monitoring capabilities through the implementation of a military radar programme and a sonobuoy programme. Officials are also exploring the possibility of Ireland hosting or participating in an “EU regional monitoring hub” dedicated to protecting subsea infrastructure.
Further developments include the establishment of “forward operating bases” for the Naval Service on both the east and west coasts, and the creation of a specialized maritime unit within the special forces. The National Maritime Security Strategy is described as a five-year roadmap to protect Ireland’s maritime interests and uphold international law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF)?
The JEF is a UK-led alliance focused on maritime security, comprised of 10 member states, all of which are also members of Nato. It is designed to respond rapidly to military crises on behalf of Nato or the UN.
What is the “Russia shadow fleet”?
The “Russia shadow fleet” is a group of hundreds of vessels used by Moscow to transport sanctioned oil. These vessels have been observed in Irish economic waters and are considered a potential security and environmental risk.
What is Ireland’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)?
The Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is the area of sea over which Ireland has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources. Foreign vessels may operate within the EEZ, but Irish territorial waters extend only 12 nautical miles from the coastline.
As Ireland navigates these evolving security challenges, how might this increased co-operation with European partners reshape its long-held policy of military neutrality?
