Israel Navy Receives Sixth Submarine, INS Drakon, After Delays
The Israeli Navy is set to receive its sixth submarine, the INS Drakon, which will dock in Israel on Thursday after a 25-day voyage from Kiel, Germany. This arrival marks the culmination of a 14-year project and significantly bolsters the navy's strategic capabilities, particularly its ability to conduct prolonged underwater operations thanks to its Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system. The submarine's arrival was delayed for months due to an embargo imposed by Norway and Denmark, which prevented it from passing through their territories, even though it sailed under the German flag. This embargo is also expected to impact the timeline for future submarine projects.
The INS Drakon, weighing 2,600 tons and measuring 74 meters, joins a fleet that is being expanded in response to the growing naval power of regional adversaries, notably Turkey and Egypt. Turkey is advancing its "Blue Homeland" doctrine with a goal of 18 submarines, while Egypt operates eight and Greece has nine. The Israeli Navy views the sea as a critical strategic asset, as 98% of the country's trade passes through it, making freedom of navigation a national interest.
The navy is also developing new capabilities, including five Reshef-class missile boats based on Israeli technology and artificial intelligence, scheduled for service in 2028. To counter regional threats, such as potential blockades of shipping lanes like the Bab al-Mandab strait and the use of drones and missiles in the Mediterranean, the navy is fostering alliances with countries like Greece and Cyprus.
In recent months, the Israeli Navy has conducted operations in distant theaters, including extended missions near enemy coastlines in the Red Sea and off Yemen. The Chief of Staff has designated the navy as a strategic arm responsible for providing long-range firepower and intelligence. The submarine unit, comprising approximately 400 personnel, typically has two submarines at sea at any given time, and since October 7th, they have been operating in new areas. The navy is also exploring the possibility of integrating women as submariners in future generations.
