Royal Navy warships are to be allowed to patrol Irish waters as part of efforts to counter Russian threats. Ireland, which is neutral and not a member of NATO, is looking to strengthen alliances with countries including the UK.
The EU nation only has eight naval ships, two of which are in operational reserve. Recruitment issues have also caused difficulties in getting vessels out to sea. The move could see Royal Navy ships offer extra security when Ireland takes up EU presidency this summer.
The Telegraph reports Ireland is concerned of the security risk Moscow could pose during the six-month presidency, as well as the threat to key underwater infrastructure.
Dublin on Wednesday released a new five-year strategy to protect its waters and subsea pipes and cables.
Ireland is also set to enhance naval ties with France, as well as the UK, as part of the plan.
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Liaison officers will be appointed to British and French maritime security agencies, reports suggest.
Dublin also wants to develop closer ties with the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) — a defence and security coalition of 10 northern European countries.
It is suggested this would help Ireland counteract Russia’s shadow fleet which have entered Irish waters and hovered over undersea cables.
Moscow’s Yantar spy ship has also been seen in the Irish Sea in recent months.
Ireland’s National Maritime Security Strategy pledges to improve the monitoring of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone and the introduction of new military programmes, including new radar and the creation of a maritime special forces unit.
Citing sources, The Irish Times reported closer ties would enable both French and UK ships to be stationed in Irish waters.
It is claimed this could include vessels being used to help provide air defence.
However, it was announced on Tuesday that two new warships have reached key stages of construction.
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