Irish Defence Forces begin rollout of new body armour for first time in 20 years
Ireland's Defence Forces has begun rolling out new body armour to its troops, in a major equipment upgrade that will reach 8,000 personnel. The new kit is being introduced for the first time in two decades and is intended to better match the demands of modern warfare. The first field deployment is due next month, when the 69th Infantry Group travels to Lebanon for what is described as the last UNIFIL mission there.
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The armour programme has cost around €25 million, according to the information provided, and was developed with both operational protection and comfort in mind. It is designed to address ballistic and fragmentation threats, including risks from artillery, mortars and improvised explosive devices. The design process also took account of equipment used by other defence forces and lessons from recent conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan and Ukraine.
Military officials said the new system was intended to improve ergonomic fit as well as protection. Col George O'Connell said the aim was to give soldiers the protection they need while keeping the armour comfortable to wear. Lt Col Cormac Brady, who will lead the 69th Infantry Group to Lebanon, said the new armour had been welcomed by personnel because of the time spent making it fit for purpose.
The rollout also marks the first time the body armour has been designed with the needs of female soldiers in mind. Extra padding has been added for the breast plate, and the adjustable design is intended to reduce the fit problems reported with older equipment. Private Jessica Slevin said the new armour feels lighter because it is more compact to the body, and said the previous version could create gaps, pressure points and restrictions when reaching for a weapon or getting into a vehicle.
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The upgrade is significant because body armour is one of the most basic items of personal protection for deployed troops, and the change comes after a long gap in procurement. The planned deployment to Lebanon also gives the programme immediate operational relevance, since the 69th Infantry Group will be the first to use the new equipment in the field. New helmets, costing around €10 million, are expected to follow by the middle of next year.
What remains unclear from the available information is how quickly the full rollout to all 8,000 troops will be completed. It is also not stated whether the helmet programme will be delivered alongside other equipment changes. The next key milestone will be the 69th Infantry Group's departure for Lebanon next month and the arrival of the remaining armour and helmets over the coming months.
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