Transforming Communication: €20 Million contract awarded for advanced Technology for Defence Forces

The Minister for Defence, Helen McEntee TD, today (Friday, 26 December) announced that her Department has a awarded a substantial contract valued at almost €20 million for the provision of an Integrated Communications and Hearing Protection System for the Defence Forces.

The new INVISIO system, which will be supplied by Thales UK Ltd, will allow Defence Forces’ personnel to communicate clearly, while also protecting their hearing from loud noises.

The INVISIO system is already in limited use in the Defence Forces. It is used currently by the Army Ranger Wing (since 2015) and by DF personnel deployed as part of Ireland’s commitment to the European Union Battlegroup. In both cases, the system has demonstrated its capability and operational effectiveness.

The new system will integrate with the new tactical radio systems being provided by Thales under a separate Software Defined Radio contract, worth €76 million.

Speaking about the contract award, the Minister said:

“The acquisition of this state-of-the-art capability reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring operational capabilities continue to be provided to enable the Defence Forces to carry out the roles assigned by Government both at home and overseas.

“The procurement of these headsets represents a very significant and strategic investment in cutting-edge technology that will improve communication, protect hearing and support the operational effectiveness of our personnel in challenging high noise environments.

“This system will transform the tactical and operational effectiveness of the Defence Forces soldier while ensuring the required levels of hearing protection during all stages of active service.

“The Government is committed to continuing to invest in both the people and capabilities of the Defence Forces in order to tackle capability gaps, modernise infrastructure and support the Defence Forces in delivering Government commitments under Level of Ambition 2 (Enhanced Capability).”