Irish Naval Service 4.87

It is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. Defence roles include defending territorial seas, deterring intrusive or aggressive acts, conducting maritime surveillance, maintaining an armed naval presence, ensuring right of passage, protecting marine assets and contributing to a blockade if required. The Naval Service must also be capable of supporting Army operations by sea lift and close naval support.
The NS is based on Haulbowline Island, Co Cork. It has an authorised maximum strength of 1,094 personnel and comprises a fleet of eight ships. The key characteristics of the NS Fleet are those of a rapid reaction, flexible and multi-capable force able to sustain the maximum number of patrol days within the constraints of the resources available.