Ireland is facing growing security concerns because many important undersea internet cables pass through its waters, while suspected Russian vessels have increasingly operated nearby. However, Ireland has limited military capabilities, including no long-range radar, combat aircraft, air defenses, or submarine-detection systems, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Ireland’s policy of military neutrality has contributed to relatively low defense spending and to its exclusion from NATO. Although the government has recently increased defense spending and developed a maritime security strategy, experts remain concerned that Ireland is not adequately prepared to protect its critical infrastructure from potential Russian interference or sabotage.
