NickPilot's model reminded me of a suggestion in the Irish Examiner (at the time of the 2015 white paper) that the Irish Government could look at the (then) recently retired RoKAF Hawk mk.67s (T-59s)
The Government doesn’t have to buy Typhoons like the ones scrambled by the British to intercept the Russian bombers to be effective, especially as they cost over €70m each. Jets are available much cheaper.
If the Government wants to penny-pinch, it could buy the Czech-made Aero L159 or ex-Korean AF BAE Hawks.
The L159 is a subsonic aircraft with similar speed to an airliner, but, critically, it can go much higher than commercial aircraft, is faster than the Russian TU95, and has an integrated radar.
If we wanted something a bit more prestigious, the KAIT50-Golden Eagle fighters could be picked up for €20m each.
However, it’s estimated in some military circles that an €80m investment in the air corps would be sufficient to provide the force with proper jets and radar defence capabilities.
For this, it could get six jets, all auxiliary equipment, support services, armaments, and proper ground radar capabilities.
From How much to protect skies above Ireland? Irish Examiner 11FEB2015