The move establishes a formal military diplomacy network for the State for the first time. Defence and Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee secured Cabinet approval to set up the network in March, with the three capitals identified as the best locations to strengthen defence links with the countries the Government regards as Ireland’s most important strategic partners. The programme will begin on a pilot basis, with key personnel placed at the three embassies.

The three officers are expected to take up their posts at the London, Paris and Washington missions this autumn. You can follow more coverage via the latest Irish news, with the appointments reported by The Journal, in what officials view as a lasting shift in how Ireland conducts defence diplomacy.