Ireland is likely to participate in four European Defence Agency projects, after the Cabinet backed a plan proposed by Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin.
However, the plan will be brought to Dáil Eireann for approval.
Three projects relate to the collaborative procurement of specialised equipment to protect members of the Defence Forces, such as from a chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear attack.
Another relates to obtaining ammunition.
However, Ireland will not be participating in the fast-track process of supplying such lethal equipment to Ukraine, as other participants plan to do.
The fourth project aims to facilitate information exchange and improve the response to cyber threats to European Union member states' defence structures.
The Tánaiste is of the view that participation in the projects should result in significant cost savings and improve the security of supply chains.
The projects will run for eight years, with the possibility of an extension, but there are no costs for participation in them.
Ireland has participated in the European Defence Agency, which was set up to support the EU’s defence capabilities, since it was established in 2004.
