The deployment of 400 Irish peacekeepers to Chad is likely to be further delayed due to the lack of adequate air support.
Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea said he is very disappointed by the setbacks.
There had been speculation last week that Bulgaria and Romania would supply helicopters and Italy would supply hospital facilities for the EU mission. But these countries did not make the expected commitments in Brussels yesterday.
Now the operational commander of the 4,000-strong EU force, Lt Gen Pat Nash, is unlikely to be able to submit his plan for the mission before Christmas.
It could be March before the main group of Irish soldiers travel to Chad.
Members of the elite army ranger wing had been due in Chad earlier this month to prepare a camp before the arrival of the main body of troops before Christmas.
But three weeks ago their departure was put off until early in the New Year. Now it seems that the deployment is likely to be deferred even further.
The mission in Chad is intended to provide protection for about 400,000 refugees fleeing the slaughter in Darfur.
The shortage of military equipment is an embarrassment for the EU, having given the commitment two months ago to protect the refugees.
Chad is a poor, land-locked country with huge logistical challenges in moving equipment, personnel, food and water.
In recent weeks, the security situation worsened near the location where Irish troops were due to be stationed.
The Defence Forces, including the advance party of elite army rangers, remain ready to deploy to Chad.
However, the booking of commercial aircraft for the movement of personnel and cargo, has been put on hold until the EU Force has been given the go-ahead.
