Irish Defence Forces lack drone rules amid rising threat, Dublin Bay sightings

The Irish Defence Forces currently operate without established rules of engagement for dealing with unauthorized drone activity, a critical gap highlighted by recent incidents and the escalating threat posed by unmanned aerial systems. This policy vacuum persists despite the acknowledged danger drones have presented for several years, particularly their increasing deployment in hybrid attacks and incidents aimed at causing disruption or embarrassment. A notable instance occurred on the night Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy arrived in Ireland, when multiple drone devices were sighted in the skies over Dublin Bay. This event underscored the immediate and tangible risks associated with unidentified aerial incursions, especially during high-security operations involving international dignitaries. The absence of clear protocols leaves military personnel without definitive guidance on how to respond to such incursions, from surveillance to potential neutralization. The ongoing lack of a comprehensive framework for drone engagement represents a significant vulnerability for national security. As drone technology becomes more accessible and sophisticated, the potential for misuse, including espionage, sabotage, or even direct attack, continues to grow. Addressing this policy deficit is crucial for ensuring the Defence Forces can effectively safeguard Irish airspace and critical assets against evolving aerial threats.