The Defence Forces and South East Technological University (SETU) have entered a new framework that will see increased educational opportunities offered to military personnel.
The €1 million project will provide advanced learning, digital upskilling, and accredited progression routes for members of the Defence Forces.
Those behind the collaboration have said it is set to "redefine how Ireland educates, trains, and empowers its military workforce".
It is also said to be the first time that a technological university will work directly with the Defence Forces to "create bespoke, accredited higher-education pathways for personnel".
The new framework introduces five interconnected work packages, including the creation of a digitalised platform for work-based learning, blended learning opportunities, and a suite of new academic programmes, focusing on innovative areas such as military policing.
A new research component will also explore how future military learners can acquire skills in an era of new technological advancements, cyber threats, and evolving security demands.
The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy has said the "landmark initiative" represents "a significant investment in the people of Óglaigh na hÉireann".
He said: "This €1 million Higher Education Authority funded project will strengthen accredited education pathways, recognise the depth of skills our personnel develop through service, and further embed lifelong learning across the Defence Forces.
"It directly supports the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces and the Joint Professional Military Education Strategy, ensuring our organisation remains agile, professional and equipped to meet evolving security challenges at home and overseas."
The new framework builds on a previous 20-year partnership between the Defence Forces and what is now SETU.
This collaboration saw leadership, management and defence studies programmes offered to enlisted personnel.
SETU has said that from these programmes, over 2,000 members of the Defence Forces have graduated, with an 88% uptake among eligible learners and a 75% career-progression rate.
Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, has said today's milestone was of "national significance."
She said: "This project is one in which educational innovation, public service transformation, and national security priorities come together.
"SETU's partnership with Óglaigh na hÉireann builds on two decades of collaboration that is culminating in our increased capacity to provide educational access to Defence Forces personnel.
"This access will support them in becoming more agile and equipped for a world in which there is deep geopolitical and technological change. I would like to thank our partners and the Higher Education Authority for their commitment and support," Prof Campbell added.
The new framework will be launched today at SETU's aerospace hanger on its Carlow campus.
