The Cabinet is to discuss proposals today which would see Irish troops participating in battle groups.
Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea said yesterday that Ireland and Sweden have an agreement in principle that Ireland join the Nordic battle group.
Speaking after a meeting with the Swedish ambassador in Brussels yesterday, the Minister said the Defence Act would be modified to allow soldiers to be trained abroad.
Ireland's contribution to any battle group, whose headquarters are likely to be located just outside London, would be "at the lower end of the scale" but is likely to consist of explosives and communications experts and up to 200 troops.
The EU battle groups, meant to be sent to trouble spots around the world, will go into operation from 2008.
Mr O'Dea claimed Irish troops would only be deployed if there is a UN mandate.