According to information published by the Irish DoD on September 4, 2024, Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin, presided over the naming and commissioning ceremonies for two newly acquired Naval Service vessels, L.É. Aoibhinn and L.É. Gobnait.
The two Inshore Patrol Vessels (IPVs), acquired from the New Zealand Government, feature advanced electronic warfare and intelligence gathering systems, enhancing the Naval Service’s ability to navigate an increasingly complex maritime environment. The ships replace the decommissioned L.É. Orla and L.É. Ciara and require fewer crew members, with just 26 personnel needed to operate each vessel. They are equipped with Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) for boarding operations and surveillance, and can reach speeds of up to 25 knots.
The Tánaiste noted that the purchase and refitting of the vessels for Irish requirements was overseen by the Naval Service and the Department of Defence. Both vessels boast automated control, modern navigation, and surveillance systems.