Israel Welcomes New Advanced Submarine Amid Regional Threats

Israel's navy is set to receive its sixth submarine, the INS "Drakon," a state-of-the-art vessel that will dock in Haifa on September 23rd and be formally commissioned the following day. Built in Germany, the submarine departed on September 1st for a lengthy journey to Israel. Its arrival is seen as a significant boost to the Israeli Navy's capabilities, particularly in light of heightened regional tensions and maritime security concerns following the October 7th attacks.

The submarine's deployment comes amid increased activity in the region, including confrontations between the U.S. and Iran in the Strait of Hormuz and Houthi control over parts of the Bab el-Mandeb strait. Israel faces potential threats in the waters between itself, Turkey, and other nations. The new submarine is part of a broader strategy by the Israeli Navy to expand its capacity, especially given that 98% of Israel's imports arrive by sea.

Sources highlight Turkey's growing naval power, with 12 submarines and plans to add six more, and the global threat of damage to underwater communication cables, with Russia cited as an example of a nation employing such tactics. While Israeli communication lines have not been directly targeted, past attempts at surveillance and data interception in the Eastern Mediterranean have been noted.

Regarding the Houthis, their actions in the Bab el-Mandeb strait are viewed as a direct threat to freedom of navigation and an Israeli interest. The potential for maritime blockades, whether through military means or civilian actions like "flotillas of freedom," is a serious concern. Israel is reportedly working to build maritime coalitions, including partnerships with Greece and Cyprus, to counter these threats.

The Israeli Navy is undergoing significant expansion to address the asymmetric threat posed by regional naval forces. This includes developing intelligence infrastructure, increasing personnel, enhancing covert capabilities, and fostering international partnerships. The new submarine, ordered 14 years ago, will become operational after Israeli systems are installed, a process expected to take about two months. The commander of the Navy, Major General Eyal Harel, is prioritizing this expansion, aiming to significantly increase the navy's capabilities and operational scope.

Since October 7th, Israeli submarines have logged approximately 10,000 operational hours annually, with at least two submarines on extended deployments at any given time. The 7th Flotilla has operated in four new, previously uncharted zones, conducting intelligence gathering and strike missions, including against the Houthis in the Red Sea. The arrival of the "Drakon" completes the second generation of Israeli submarines built in Germany, symbolizing a long-standing military partnership. The submarine's journey from Germany spanned roughly 4,000 nautical miles and took about a month. Delays in its preparation were caused by Norway and Denmark initially denying access for training and checks, and by embargoes related to the ongoing war.