Republic of Ireland Is Alarmingly Exposed on Defence, Critics Warn

The Republic of Ireland took centuries to secure its sovereignty. Yet in 2026, critics argue the State is failing in one of the most basic responsibilities of any government: defending the nation.

As global instability grows, concerns are mounting that the Republic is more vulnerable now than at any point in modern history.

Defence in the Republic of Ireland Under Severe Pressure

The Irish Defence Forces are currently operating at historically low staffing levels, with approximately 7,600 personnel across the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps.

That figure has triggered serious questions about how the Republic of Ireland could defend itself against a credible external threat.

Key issues highlighted include:

• Chronic understaffing across all branches
• Outdated equipment and limited naval patrol capability
• Minimal air defence and surveillance coverage
• Slow delivery of long-promised reforms

Critics argue that warnings from within the Defence Forces have not been matched with political urgency.

Defence Spending Leaves the Republic of Ireland Isolated

The Republic of Ireland spends around 0.2% of GDP on defence, placing it among the lowest spenders in Europe.

By contrast, many EU states are rapidly increasing military budgets in response to security threats from Russia and broader geopolitical instability.

From a defence perspective, Ireland is increasingly viewed as Europe’s weak point.

Neutrality Without Military Strength

Ireland’s policy of military neutrality is often defended as a moral and diplomatic strength. However, critics argue neutrality without credible defence capability is deeply risky.

A neutral state still requires:

• A modern, fully equipped army
• Effective naval and airspace protection
• Cybersecurity and intelligence resilience

Without these, neutrality may simply mean vulnerability.

Strategic Importance of the Republic of Ireland

The Republic of Ireland holds significant strategic value:

• Dublin is a major global technology hub
• Critical transatlantic internet cables land along the west coast
• Increased reports of foreign intelligence activity in Irish waters

Despite this, critics claim there is no clearly communicated national defence or civil protection plan should the State come under attack.

Political Leadership and Slow Progress

The Government has announced incremental increases in defence funding. However, critics describe these increases as inadequate given the scale of modern threats.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has acknowledged shortcomings in defence capability, but progress on reform is widely viewed as slow.

There is also frustration over the absence of a serious public debate on defence policy and national preparedness.

Reliance on External Protection

One of the most controversial realities is the Republic of Ireland’s reliance on external partners, particularly the UK, for airspace and maritime security support.

For a nation that fought hard to end British rule, this dependency highlights how exposed Ireland has become in an unpredictable world.

A Call for National Debate in the Republic of Ireland

Critics are calling for:

• A comprehensive review of defence policy
• Substantial long-term investment in military capability
• Transparent public discussion on risks and preparedness
• Clear planning for civil defence and emergency response

Ignoring these issues, they warn, risks leaving the Republic of Ireland dangerously unprepared.