Israel's New 'Dragon' Submarine Arrives After 14 Years of Planning
Israel's advanced new submarine, the 'Dragon,' is set to arrive at the port of Haifa on Thursday, marking the culmination of 14 years of planning and construction. The submarine's reception was delayed by several months due to embargoes imposed by Norway and Denmark on related activities. The Israeli military highlighted significant German assistance and security measures provided throughout the submarine's journey from German ports to international waters, emphasizing their contribution to Israel.
With the 'Dragon' joining the fleet, the Israeli Navy will operate six submarines: three Dolphin-class and three Dolphin AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) class. The Navy stated that this expanded fleet provides Israel with a technological and qualitative advantage, strengthening maritime control beyond existing superiority in certain areas.
Naval officials stressed the critical importance of maritime transport for Israel, noting that 98% of goods entering the country arrive by sea. They compared the capacity of a large aircraft, capable of carrying about 100 warheads, to a ship that can transport 15,000 containers filled with vast amounts of ammunition. The Navy considers Israel an "island nation" in terms of its reliance on sea lanes, particularly in the Mediterranean and Red Seas.
Since October 7, 2023, new maritime theaters have emerged, including Iran, Yemen, and countries in the western Mediterranean, posing additional challenges. In response, the military emphasized the need for more ships and personnel. The Navy is also focusing on underwater capabilities, described as a developing "surprise." Additionally, plans are underway to deploy more Dvora-class patrol boats to the Gulf of Eilat to counter Houthi threats and secure the Jordanian border, alongside additional Whiting-class vessels. New Reshef-class vessels are expected to enter service in the coming years, replacing older missile boats, alongside further advanced ships, munitions, and missiles tailored to current challenges. The 'Dragon's' arrival is part of a broader expansion of naval capabilities to address these evolving threats and operate far from Israel's shores.
