Irish authorities are stepping up efforts to combat illegal trade, smuggling, and organized crime along the country’s extensive coastline. As part of its maritime enforcement modernization program, the Revenue Commissioners of Ireland have acquired a new patrol vessel, Cosaint, worth €8.7 million (approximately $10 million USD).
According to the agency, Cosaint will play a key role in disrupting and dismantling criminal supply chains that exploit Ireland’s coastal waters for illegal activity. In recent years, Ireland has become a major gateway for narcotics entering the European Union.
Since January 2023, Irish authorities have conducted more than 35,000 drug seizures, totaling 110 tonnes with an estimated street value of over €650 million ($758 million USD).
Once operational in the coming weeks, Cosaint will patrol 3,173 kilometers (1,972 miles) of Irish coastline, providing enhanced maritime surveillance and support for anti-smuggling operations.
Key specifications of the vessel include:
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Length: 35 meters (115 feet)
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Gross tonnage: 204 tons
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Range: over 750 nautical miles
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Top speed: 18 knots
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Propulsion: hybrid-electric power system
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Features: gyro-stabilizer and advanced navigation systems
The vessel’s design emphasizes high maneuverability and energy efficiency, significantly strengthening the Revenue’s maritime enforcement capabilities.
Designed by French engineering firm Mauric and built by Spanish shipyard Armon, Cosaint replaces the long-serving Suirbhéir, which is being retired after two decades of service. It will join the existing vessel Faire, scheduled for decommissioning in 2029.
When Revenue signed the contract with Armon in 2023, it also included an option for a second patrol vessel to eventually replace Faire.
“The acquisition of this new vessel clearly demonstrates Revenue’s and Ireland’s unwavering commitment to combating illegal trade, smuggling, and organized crime at sea,” said Niall Cody, Chairman of Revenue.
Ricardo García, Commercial Director of Armon Group, noted that the vessel’s delivery represents the culmination of years of planning, construction, and sea trials. He added that Cosaint is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and surveillance systems, greatly enhancing Revenue’s operational capabilities.
“This new generation of patrol vessels will enable Ireland’s customs service to conduct its core border control missions in an energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable way,” García added.
