The delivery of the third C295 completes a 300 million euro program and marks a historic advance in the modernization of the Armed Forces
The Irish Air Force has received its third and final transport aircraft Airbus C295officially concluding the largest defense contract in the country’s history. The program, valued at 300 million euroscontemplated the delivery of two units in a maritime patrol version C295 MSA “Persuade” and one in tactical transport configuration.
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According to the government, the investment represents the most ambitious equipment acquisition project ever carried out by the Irish Armed Forces.
Modernization and strategic autonomy
He Irish Defense Minister highlighted that the arrival of the new C295, along with the future delivery of the strategic executive jet Dassault Falcon 6X — scheduled for the end of 2025 —, significantly expands national capabilities in transportation, aerial surveillance and medical evacuation.
The minister added that the program “demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening the infrastructure and operational independence of the Irish Air Corps.”
New capacities and replacement of the old fleet
The new multipurpose aircraft C295 expands Ireland’s operational reach in troop transport, logistical support, medical evacuation and international humanitarian operations missions. The model replaces the veterans CN235in service since 1994 and considered obsolete in the face of modern demands for maritime patrol and rapid response.
Plan for fighters and national radar
Historically, Ireland has relied on United Kingdom for air interceptions, since it does not have its own fighters or an independent radar system. Since 1999, British aircraft have patrolled Irish airspace, a situation that has been increasingly criticized internally.
In 2025, the government announced a paradigm shift: it plans to invest up to 2.5 billion euros in the acquisition of 8 to 14 fighters and in the implementation of a complete radar system, thus guaranteeing autonomy in the defense of national airspace.
Towards a more independent defense
With the arrival of the new C295 and the future incorporation of the Falcon 6X, Ireland takes a strategic step towards the modernization and operational sovereignty of its air forces — a historic milestone for a traditionally neutral country, but increasingly committed to European security.
Source and images: gov.ie | Airbus Defense | @AirbusDefence. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
