two such retired RNZN vessels, HMNZS Rotoiti and HMNZS Pukaki, for €26 million. The ships are due be transported from New Zealand to Ireland in 2023. The two vessels are intended to replace LÉ Orla and LÉ Ciara and reportedly require less crew to operate. Decommissioned The following vessels have served in the service's fleet: (1946–1970) (1946–1972) (1947–1970) (1971–1987) (1971–1984) (1971–1987) (1972–2001) (1976–1984) (1977–1978) (1978–2013) (1979–2015) (1980–2016) (1984–2022) (1989–2022) (1989–2022) Weapons Personnel and ranks As of May 2016, there were 1,094 personnel of all ranks in the Naval Service, plus approximately 150 in the Naval Service Reserve. The Naval Service is headed by a general officer commanding (GOC) known as the "flag officer commanding the naval service" (FOCNS), who holds the rank of commodore. Non-military training takes place alongside Mercantile Marine personnel at the National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy, near to the Haulbowline base. See also Irish Coast Guard Marine Institute Ireland List of Irish state vessels List of navies Footnotes External links Official Defence Forces website Official Naval Service website Maritime Institute of Ireland – History 1946 establishments in Ireland Military of the Republic of Ireland