In this episode, we speak with Sgt Mark Fitzpatrick and Cpl Colin McQuaid of the 27th Infantry Battalion Sniper Team, following their impressive performance at the 2026 International Sniper Competition in Fort Benning, Georgia.

Competing against some of the world’s leading sniper teams, the 27th Infantry Battalion team finished 5th overall and won Best International Team. An outstanding achievement and one that continues the long tradition of Irish Defence Forces teams performing to an exceptionally high standard at this prestigious competition.

Sgt Fitzpatrick and Cpl McQuaid discuss the preparation, teamwork, discipline and challenges involved in competing at the highest level, as well as what it means to represent the Irish Defence Forces on the international stage.

Listen as we go behind the scenes of the competition and hear first-hand about the experience from members of the team.

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In this week’s episode, we hear the remarkable story of Corporal Dylan Quigg, a 28th Infantry Battalion soldier based at Finner Camp in Co Donegal, who has come out on top in one of the toughest military competitions in the United States.

Cpl Quigg beat strong competition to be named Best Non-Commissioned Officer in the Massachusetts Army National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition in Boston. Over three gruelling days, competitors were tested on everything from battlefield medical aid, marksmanship and navigation to grenade throwing, military doctrine and a demanding promotion interview.

And then the ultimate test: a 12-mile march carrying a 35lb pack.

Cpl Quigg was one of four Irish Defence Forces personnel representing the 28th Infantry Battalion, following weeks of intensive preparation that included training with the Central Medical Unit, Artillery Regiment and the Army Ranger Wing.

We hear about the competition, the preparation behind the success, and what it meant for Cpl Quigg to come out on top.

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In this week’s episode of the Irish Defence Forces Podcast, we explore the rapidly evolving role of drones and First Person View (FPV) systems in modern military operations.

We speak to Capt Stephen Donovan, who recently completed an Advanced FPV Drone Course in Latvia, as he shares his experience of the training and his insights into the capabilities and potential applications of FPV technology.

The episode also looks at the ongoing development of drone capabilities within the Defence Forces and how drones are being utilised across a wide range of conflict zones around the world. We explore how this rapidly developing technology could be incorporated into Defence Forces training, and the potential benefits of developing greater familiarity and expertise with drone systems.

As drones continue to transform the modern battlespace, an increasing number of military experts are considering drone operation and counter-drone capabilities as core military skills for modern armed forces.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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