Gardaí acquired Sentrycs technology through a US supplier to protect major international events.
By Shula Rosen
Ireland’s national police service, An Garda Síochána, purchased Israeli-made counter-drone systems to protect major international events despite a government policy against procuring defense equipment containing Israeli components, The Journal reported.
The equipment, developed by Sentrycs, an Israeli technology company based in Tel Aviv and New York, was acquired through a US-based supplier rather than directly from Israel.
The purchase contrasts with an August 2024 declaration by Micheál Martin that Ireland would not buy Israeli defense equipment during the war in Gaza.
According to The Journal, the Gardaí selected the technology because of its advanced capabilities and the difficulty of finding comparable systems without Israeli components.
Sources familiar with the procurement described the equipment as among the most sophisticated counter-drone technologies available.
One called it “the best that can be bought,” while another said American security specialists had recommended it as one of the world’s leading systems.
Sentrycs develops technology capable of detecting, tracking and taking control of unauthorized drones entering protected airspace.
The systems allow security personnel to identify potential aerial threats and intervene when drones approach restricted locations.
Irish police have deployed the equipment as part of security arrangements for major international gatherings, including events associated with Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Some installations have been positioned on rooftops overlooking event venues, including University College Cork, where they provide surveillance and protection against unauthorized drone activity.
Specially trained Garda units operate the systems, which are intended to prevent drones from entering restricted airspace during high-security events.
The Journal reported that the decision reflected the operational requirements of Irish police, whose assessment of available technology favored the Israeli-developed equipment.
Sources said identifying alternatives offering comparable performance without Israeli involvement had proved difficult.
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