The UK and Ireland have signed a ‘rebooted’ defence agreement that could see the Royal Navy respond to threats in Irish waters, including the sabotage of critical undersea cables. The deal, announced at the second post-Brexit Ireland-UK summit in Cork on Friday, updates a 2016 agreement to address cyber-threats and the protection of internet and electricity cables.
The agreement follows a series of incidents in the Irish Sea over the past 18 months, including the escorting of a Russian spy ship that patrolled an area containing vital submarine pipelines and cables. Taoiseach Micheál Martin referenced these events, stating that certain elements have been observing cables and other critical infrastructure, and the deal aims to ensure an effective response if an incident occurs.
Asked whether the Royal Navy would patrol Irish waters, Martin said he would not get into specifics but confirmed it is not patrolling. UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the memorandum modernises cooperation on security, particularly against growing undersea and cyber-threats.
Ireland’s defence capabilities have faced criticism due to its strategic importance, with 75% of transatlantic cables passing through or near its waters. The country is not in Nato, has no submarines, and maintains a policy of neutrality with one of Europe’s smallest defence forces. The new agreement establishes a coordinated response mechanism for major subsea cable incidents affecting both nations.
