Israeli Navy Submarine Arrives Amid European Embargoes and Regional Threats

The Israeli Navy's sixth submarine, INS Drakon, arrived in Israel on Wednesday after a 25-day journey from German shipyards. The submarine traveled submerged for most of its route through the Kiel Canal, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the Mediterranean Sea. Its arrival comes amid significant delays in the submarine project, reportedly caused by a European embargo imposed over the past two years. Denmark and Norway allegedly denied the submarine access to their ports for test dives, while Canada and France restricted the sale of systems to Germany due to the submarine's intended use by Israel.

These delays are also impacting the next submarine project, the Dakar class. Defense officials are reportedly pushing for the acquisition of two additional submarines, the seventh and eighth, citing the naval buildup of regional adversaries. According to a recent report, the defense establishment believes six submarines will be insufficient for the navy's needs.

Concurrently, the Israeli Navy revealed operational capabilities demonstrated during the recent conflict, involving naval assets operating undetected for weeks in the Red Sea, near enemy coastlines. These operations, some involving submarines, occurred approximately 3,000 kilometers from Israel. The navy stated that missile ships can operate in distant theaters for over two weeks, gathering intelligence and striking targets if necessary.

These developments coincide with concerns over the Houthi threat in the Bab-el-Mandeb strait and potential disruptions to maritime navigation for Israel. The IDF believes it needs the capability to operate in this region and ensure the strait remains open if a blockade is attempted. The navy is also developing a broad expansion plan that includes more submarines, semi-autonomous vessels, and unmanned systems for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. The Chief of Staff has designated the navy as a crucial strategic arm for the IDF, alongside the Air Force.