Dan Tuohy has signed a three-year contract extension with the Ulster that will keep him at Kingspan Stadium until at least the summer of 2018.
Lock Tuohy joined from Exeter Chiefs in the summer of 2009 and the nine-cap international made a try-scoring debut for Ireland against the All Blacks in 2010.
The 29-year-old had an injury-blighted 2014 having broken his arm twice, against Wales for Ireland in February and then again in September against Cardiff Blues.
Commenting on his new contract, Tuohy said: “I am delighted to have signed a new contract with Ulster.
"I have been here almost six years now and although Ulster Rugby has evolved a huge amount in that time we are yet to win anything.
“Having the chance to be part of a trophy-winning Ulster team was a huge part of my decision to stay and I will be giving my all to help Ulster be successful in the next three seasons.”
Ulster Rugby’s team manager Bryn Cunningham added: “Dan is hugely important to us and has developed into a highly effective leader both on off the pitch.
"He has proven at both international and provincial level that he is an outstanding player in his position.
“His effectiveness as a powerful ball carrier to break the gainline at important times in matches is crucial in the modern game.
“I am extremely pleased he has committed to Ulster in the long term showing the belief our front line players have in the future of Ulster Rugby.
“I have no doubt that he will continue to make a huge contribution to our success in the next three seasons.”
