Ireland signs multi-million-euro contract for first towed sonar system

Ireland’s Department of Defence has signed a multi-million euro contract with Thales DMS France to provide the Irish Naval Service with its first towed sonar system.

The sonar capability will be used on naval vessels to monitor activities in the Irish exclusive economic zone (EEZ), with a particular focus on protecting subsea communication cables and gas pipelines.

According to the ministry, the new system is anticipated to be available to the Naval Service in 2027.

“This significant investment in sonar capability will provide the Naval Service with a state-of-the-art sonar system, which will enable them to build a picture of our subsea, thus contributing to the important task of protecting our critical underwater infrastructure,” said Defence Minister Simon Harris.

The purchase responds to recommendations made by the Commission on the Defence Forces for enhanced sub-surface monitoring capabilities.

It is funded through an increased capital allocation for defence, which is set to reach approximately €1.5 billion by 2028.