Defence Forces

5th July 2011

Irish Sea Ferry Engaged in Maritime Counter Terrorism Exercise

The Naval Service, the Air Corps and Army Ranger Wing (ARW) an elite specialist force, completed a maritime counter terrorism exercise on board an Irish Sea ferry at the weekend, writes Jehan Ashmore.

For the purposes of the exercise Stena Line's Dublin-Holyhead ferry Stena Adventurer was used in a scenario involving terrorist activity of a large ship entering Dublin Port, culminating in an armed intervention.

The operation was spearheaded by the ARW with the support of a Naval Service coastal patrol vessel (CPV) and also Air Corps helicopters. High-speed tactical assault craft with ARW teams on board conducted manoeuvres while air-borne teams fast-roped from helicopters onto the deck of the Stena Adventurer. To see photos of the ARW team in action click HERE.

The exercise was designed to enhance the capacity of the Defence Forces to provide the State with a highly specialised maritime armed intervention capability.

Last month the Naval Service conducted close quarter manoeuvres in 'Operation Quixote' off the south-west coast. The exercise involved the entire naval fleet except for the flagship LE Eithne, which performed in gunnery practice, simulated air attacks from the Air Corps and armed naval boarding parties.

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Increased Naval Presence for Queen’s Visit

The historic visit of HRH Queen Elizabeth II to Ireland today, has led to an increased level of security by the Defence Forces through the deployment of the air corps, army and the navy in addition to the Gardai.

On the naval front it is believed that two naval vessels are on duty for the arrival of the Queen to Dublin, marking the first of a four-day visit which is to include Cashel and Cork city. The last visit by the head of the British monarchy was 100 years ago when King George V and Queen Mary arrived by sea at Kingstown (Dun Laoghaire).

The most modern naval vessel of the eight-strong fleet the LÉ Niamh (P52) is an offshore patrol vessel (OPV) which is equipped with a bow-mounted 76mm gun. To see the crew undertake exercise-drills of the gun, watch the video below.

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Officer Cadetships in the Naval Service

The Defence Forces are looking for candidates to fill essential appointments in the Army, Air Corps and the Naval Service.

Applications are invited from school leavers and graduates who will be not less than 17 years of age and under 28 years of age on 3 October 2011 to fill the following positions in the Defence Forces.

The positions are Army Officers, Air Corps Officers (Pilot) and Naval Service Officers (Operations Officer or Engineering Officer). For further information including salary scale logon to www.military.ie/careers/officer

Applications for the 2011 Officer Cadet Competition are only being accepted online at www.military.ie and only from candidates who meet the minimum eligibility qualifications. Noting the closing date is 20 March 2011.

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