The Irish Defence Forces Podcast

In this week’s episode of the Irish Defence Forces Podcast, we hear from Sgt Richard Carroll and Pte Dan Kennedy of the 3rd Infantry Battalion Sniper Team, who represented the Irish Defence Forces at the Danish International Sniper Competition (DISC) 2026.We are also joined by CS Anthony O’Malley of the Infantry Weapons Wing (IWW), who provides insight into the background and value of national and international military competitions, as well as the benefits and challenges of competing at this level.DISC is renowned for challenging sniper teams across a range of disciplines designed to reflect current threats and lessons from conflict zones. With scenarios changing from year to year, teams must think instinctively, adapt under pressure and find solutions rather than rely on routines from previous competitions. This year, particular emphasis was placed on drones and UAVs.Hear from the team about the preparation involved, the challenges they faced, the lessons learned from the competition and what it takes to pursue a career as a sniper in the Defence Forces.

In this episode of the Defence Forces Podcast, we hear from Company Sergeant Stephen McCaul, a SERE (Survival, Escape and Evasion, Resistance to Interrogation and Extraction) Instructor, following his participation in the French Equatorial Survival Course in French Guiana.The 17-day course included eight days of intensive SERE training deep in the Amazon Rainforest, one of the most challenging environments on the planet. Operating in temperatures reaching 34°C with humidity as high as 98%, participants faced the constant dangers of dehydration, limited food and the demanding terrain of the rainforest, while also encountering the wildlife that inhabits it, including jaguars, pumas, caiman, anacondas, tarantulas and vampire bats. The course also required participants to cross the Amazon River at various stages.Drawing on his experience as a SERE Instructor, CS McCaul shares what it took to survive, adapt and perform under extreme physical and psychological pressure. His performance throughout the course saw him finish as the Best Student, an outstanding achievement and a testament to his professionalism, resilience, adaptability and expertise.In this episode, CS McCaul takes us into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, sharing his experiences of the course, the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned from operating in one of the world's most demanding environments.

This series of the Irish Defence Forces Podcast returns with the remarkable story behind Shamrock One, the Cavalry Corp team that travelled to the United States to compete in the prestigious 2026 Sullivan Cup at Fort Benning. Facing some of the world's best armoured crews, the team had never operated the M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle before arriving in the U.S. With just 2 weeks of training on the platform, they went on to achieve the extraordinary - winning the premier international armour crew competition. Their outstanding performance secured 699 points from a possible 1000, earning an historic victory for the Irish Defence Forces and demonstrating the professionalism, adaptability and determination of Irish soldiers on the international stage. Joining us to tell the story behind this achievement are Lieutenant Colm Meade, Sergeant Shane Molloy and Trooper Tristan Regan, who discuss the preparation, the pressure, the competition itself and what it means to win the Sullivan Cup.

Episode Six of the series turns its focus to Defence Forces Soccer, highlighting the role sport plays in developing leadership, teamwork, and professionalism across the organisation.In this episode, we explore the recent leadership evening delivered with the Irish U-21 national team, where Defence Forces personnel conducted team building exercises and shared insights on leadership, resilience, and performing under pressure. The discussion reflects on the value of collaboration between elite sport and the military, and how shared experiences can inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders.The conversation also looks ahead to upcoming Defence Forces soccer tournaments and the range of development opportunities available to personnel interested in advancing their involvement in the game. From coaching pathways to refereeing courses, the episode outlines how members can build their skills while contributing to the continued growth of soccer within the organisation.Along the way, participants share their own experiences of playing and supporting Defence Forces soccer, offering a personal perspective on the camaraderie, competition, and pride that comes with representing the organisation on and off the pitch.#ÓglaighnahÉireann #DefendOurState #IrishDefenceForces

Episode Five turns the spotlight on the Central Medical Unit. In this episode, we explore how Defence Forces medical personnel work in close partnership with the Health Service Executive to respond to 999 emergency calls, providing frontline clinical care when and where it is needed most.From rapid response taskings to seamless integration with civilian ambulance services, the discussion highlights the professionalism, adaptability, and clinical expertise that Defence Forces medics bring to every call. We examine the training, coordination, and operational readiness required to operate in high-pressure environments, ensuring patients receive timely and effective care.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the dedication and compassion of the men and women of the Central Medical Unit as they stand ready to support communities across Ireland.#ÓglaighnahÉireann #DefendOurState #IrishDefenceForces

Episode Four of this series turns its focus to the Infantry Weapons Wing (IWW), examining the pivotal role it plays within the Infantry School and across the wider organisation. This episode explores how the IWW drives excellence in marksmanship, weapons instruction, and tactical development.Through our discussion, the episode highlights the IWW’s responsibility for delivering specialist weapons courses, developing instructors, and preparing personnel for upcoming competitions that showcase skill, discipline, and professionalism. It also looks ahead to future projects and initiatives designed to enhance capability, modernise training, and strengthen interoperability across units.Listeners will gain insight into the expertise, precision, and commitment of IWW personnel who work behind the scenes to ensure that Irish Defence Forces soldiers are trained to the highest standard.

Episode Three turns its focus to the Emergency Aeromedical Service (EAS) of the Irish Defence Forces Air Corps, exploring the critical role it plays in supporting the State. This episode examines the capability, training and coordination required to deliver rapid aeromedical response in time-critical situations. Through expert discussion, it highlights the professionalism, adaptability and commitment of Air Corps personnel who provide lifesaving support in emergency situations, often operating in challenging environments where speed, precision and teamwork are paramount.

Episode Two explores Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations with a focused discussion on the use of Manual Neutralisation Techniques (MNT). This episode provides insight into the specialist skills, training, decision-making, and risk management involved in employing hands-on techniques to safely render explosive threats safe. Through expert discussion, it highlights the professionalism, precision, and operational discipline required of EOD teams in complex and high-risk environments.

This episode offers an insight into the Irish Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Teams' participation in Exercise Northern Challenge displaying specialist skills, international cooperation and operational readiness combined with a team performance that led to the Irish Defence Forces EOD Team being voted as the Best Team for 2025.