Ireland planning to donate air defense radar systems to Ukraine

That’s according to The Irish Times, Ukrinform reports.

“The Ukrainian government had expressed an interest in accessing some legacy equipment that we have in the Irish Defence Forces,” he said, adding that Ireland is in the process of buying a modern radar system.

Irish officials are waiting to hear back from Ukrainian authorities about the offer to donate the older radar systems. Harris said the response would determine the timeline and how much equipment Ireland gave to Ukraine, noting that the process of transferring the systems could happen “relatively quickly”.

The publication notes that this refers to the transfer of Giraffe Mark IV radar systems, which is part of the Irish government’s commitment to assist Ukraine with non-lethal military equipment and training.

The Department of Defence of Ireland said it is continuing to engage with Ukrainian authorities in relation to the provision of non-lethal assistance, by reference to the Ukrainian armed forces’ identified needs.

“In terms of the Giraffe system, we are waiting on arrangements with the Ukrainian armed forces in relation to their acceptance of the systems and the provision of training,” the department said.

Ireland possesses seven of the Giraffe systems. It has not yet been determined if all are to be donated. Sources said at least three are to be handed over to Ukraine.

Ireland acquired Giraffe Mark IV short-range radar systems in 2008. The radars are mounted on tracked vehicles, have a detection range of up to 50km and can track up to 20 missiles or drones at once.

As reported by Ukrinform, on February 23, Estonia announced a new military aid package to Ukraine, which includes artillery ammunition and food supplies for Ukrainian soldiers.