The Irish Army, known simply as the Army , is the land component of the Defence Forces of Ireland. Approximately 7,500 men and women currently serve in the Irish Army, divided into two geographically organised brigades. As well as maintaining its primary roles of defending the State and internal security within the State, since 1958 the Army has had a continuous presence in peacekeeping missions around the world. The Army also participates in the European Union Battlegroups. The Air Corps and Naval Service support the Army in carrying out its roles.