An Irish government jet may be unable to land in foggy conditions following the removal of its navigation system, which was manufactured by an Israeli company. The €53 million (approximately $57 million USD) Dassault Falcon 6X, used by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, is equipped with a FalconEye system designed to assist landings in adverse weather. However, this technology is produced by Elbit Systems, an Israeli firm.
Ireland's government adopted a policy in 2024 to blacklist defense equipment originating from Israel. Consequently, the jet must operate without the FalconEye system. A former Irish Air Corps pilot, Kevin Phipps, noted that such systems provide the capability to land in fog when other aircraft might need to divert to alternate airports.
Procurement officials determined that fitting the system would necessitate a written agreement with Elbit Systems, a step deemed unacceptable. Despite this, the Irish Department of Defence stated that the aircraft has no current limitations on its operational capabilities. Notably, Ireland's four new air corps helicopters are fitted with Elbit flight systems essential for their operation.
Alex Gandler, a spokesperson for the Israeli embassy in the UK, criticized the decision, calling it a result of "incompetence and ideological fervour" and "rabid anti-Israel brain rot." The Falcon 6X was introduced in December 2025, replacing the Lear jet previously used by the Irish government. The Falcon 6X, built by Dassault Aviation, is designed to carry 14 passengers and is primarily used for transporting the Taoiseach and other ministers.
The FalconEye system utilizes cameras and sensors to provide pilots with enhanced situational awareness in various weather and lighting conditions, displaying information on the cockpit display during landing approaches. Elbit Systems has faced protests globally from pro-Palestine activists, with the company being a primary manufacturer of equipment for the Israeli military. In June, four protesters who damaged an Elbit factory in Bristol were jailed, with a judge describing their actions as "an act of terrorism."