Ireland considers defense loans from EU's SAFE program despite neutrality

Ireland is contemplating seeking loans from the European defense program SAFE, which facilitates joint procurement of defense equipment for EU member states. This move comes as the country aims to bolster its defense capabilities, even while maintaining its status as a neutral nation.

Finance Minister Simon Harris explained that Ireland wishes to enhance its defense capacities. "Ireland wants to increase its defense capabilities and we are a neutral country, militarily non-aligned, but we are not a country immune to the modern threats facing all European Union (EU) countries," Harris told international press during Ireland's presidency of the Council of the EU.

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Ireland wants to increase its defense capabilities and we are a neutral country, militarily non-aligned, but we are not a country immune to the modern threats facing all European Union (EU) countries.

While Ireland did not apply for loans during the program's first call, citing its economic capacity to fund a significant increase in defense spending domestically, the government "will consider" it when a new call opens. Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Defense Minister Helen McEntee indicated that Ireland plans to join SAFE not only for access to funds but also to foster closer collaboration with European partners.

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When it opens, which I hope and believe will be later this year, I am preparing with my colleagues in government that Ireland will join SAFE, not only to be able to access funds, but also to work more closely with our European colleagues.

McEntee emphasized Ireland's commitment to increasing defense investment and working with European partners on shared priorities, focusing on broader security aspects like critical infrastructure protection and maritime security. The country is actively developing capabilities in areas such as counter-drone technology, radar systems, and submarine cable protection, leveraging domestic companies that are investing in new threat detection technologies.

Launched in 2025, the EU's SAFE program offers up to 150 billion euros in loans to member states for joint procurement of defense materiel, ranging from ammunition and drones to military mobility investments. Despite this increased focus on security and defense, Prime Minister Michéal Martin reiterated that Ireland will remain neutral, reflecting the will of the "overwhelming majority" of its citizens. He distinguished Ireland's position from that of Finland and Sweden, which joined NATO following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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overwhelming majority