The Irish government has enlisted the Institute for Security Governance (ISG), a US Defense Department agency based at the Pentagon, to advise on a comprehensive reorganization of Ireland’s military services.
The American agency has already begun consultations with Irish Air Corps leaders about transforming the organization into a more independent air force structure with dedicated command systems and responsibility for protecting Irish airspace, particularly with the planned acquisition of primary radar capabilities.
According to its website, the ISG serves as the US Department of Defense’s “leading implementer for Institutional Capacity Building” and works with partner nations to develop military institutions “grounded in American values and approaches.” The agency has reportedly worked with over 80 nations worldwide.
This consultation is part of Ireland’s broader Action Plan to modernize its military following recommendations from the Commission on the Defence Forces, which identified significant operational gaps three years ago. The commission specifically called for “external experts with access to international military expertise” to assist in redesigning Ireland’s military structure.
The Department of Defence confirmed that the ISG will work with all three branches of the Irish Defence Forces through a newly established Office of Strategic Force Design. The Pentagon-based consultants were selected after the Defence Forces evaluated several potential partners.
According to The Journal, this restructuring initiative runs parallel to major equipment procurement plans, including a potential €600 million purchase of armored vehicles, possible mobile artillery acquisitions, and investments in radar stations, sonar systems, medium-lift helicopters, and new naval vessels.
The ISG’s work with the Irish Defence Forces is expected to continue throughout 2025.