On October 1, 2024, Ireland’s Ministry of Defence announced a record allocation of €1.35 billion in its budget for 2025, representing an increase of €100 million compared to the previous year. Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin, described the budget as a reflection of the government’s commitment to meeting the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces and the Independent Review Group, focusing on both the modernization of the Defence Forces and enhancing Ireland’s defense capabilities.
The budget for 2025 includes €215 million in capital spending, the highest level of capital funding the Defence Forces have received to date, and €805 million allocated to current expenditure. A central focus of the budget is the recruitment of an additional 400 members to the Permanent Defence Forces. Despite this goal, the current force strength remains below the established target of 9,500 personnel, with approximately 7,500 members presently serving.
The government has also set a longer-term objective to expand the force to 11,500 members by 2028. The budget provides €469 million for personnel pay, including salaries for new recruits, such as €49,552 for Graduate Cadets, €44,216 for School Leaver Cadets, and €40,297 for a Private 3 Star or Able Seaman. Additionally, €3.2 million will be allocated for advertising to support recruitment efforts.
In terms of equipment and infrastructure, the 2025 budget outlines several key projects, including the delivery of an Airbus C295W transport aircraft for the Air Corps. This aircraft is intended to support transport and evacuation missions and may be supplemented by the potential acquisition of a third C295 airlifter. Other aviation-related allocations include €8 million to support the Air Corps in fleet maintenance, airfield operations, and training costs.