Israel Receives Largest German-Built Attack Submarine Since WWII Worth $634 Million
Our take
The recent delivery of the INS Drakon, Israel’s newest and most expensive submarine, marks a significant development in the regional security landscape and underscores the ongoing evolution of submarine warfare capabilities. This Dolphin II-class submarine, built by Germany, completes Israel’s advanced submarine program and represents a substantial investment in underwater defense. The acquisition arrives amidst a complex geopolitical environment, particularly considering the recent increase in Russian naval activity around UK waters, as detailed in Royal Navy Steps Up Monitoring As Russian Naval Activity Around UK Waters Rises 25%. The timing highlights the broader trend of nations bolstering their maritime defenses in response to shifting global power dynamics and heightened security concerns. The submarine’s advanced capabilities, including its ability to operate discreetly in littoral waters and its integration with advanced sensor systems, contribute to Israel's strategic depth and its ability to project power in a contested maritime environment.
The collaboration between Israel and Germany on this project is notable, reflecting a deepening security partnership and a willingness to share advanced technology. The Type 212CD submarine, the foundation of this class, has seen expanded cooperation between Germany, Norway, and Canada specifically for Arctic operations, as discussed in Germany, Norway And Canada Expand Type 212CD Submarine Cooperation For Arctic Operations. This highlights the increasing importance of submarine technology in both regional and high-latitude environments. The $634 million price tag reflects the sophistication of the Drakon's systems, including its advanced sonar, torpedoes, and air-independent propulsion (AIP), allowing for extended underwater endurance. Furthermore, Australia’s recent investment in combat systems integration for its Virginia-class submarine fleet, as reported in Australia Signs $26.5 Million Deal To Build Combat Systems Integration For Virginia-Class Submarine Fleet, demonstrates a global trend towards enhancing the operational effectiveness of submarine fleets through advanced technology and integration.
Beyond the immediate implications for Israel’s defense posture, the Drakon's arrival signals a continued emphasis on underwater warfare as a critical component of national security strategies. Submarines offer a unique blend of stealth, firepower, and intelligence-gathering capabilities, making them invaluable assets in a world increasingly characterized by asymmetric threats and contested maritime spaces. The increasing complexity of these platforms—requiring sophisticated sensor arrays, advanced propulsion systems, and seamless integration with network-centric warfare capabilities—demands a high level of technological expertise and significant financial investment. The reliance on international partnerships, such as the one between Israel and Germany, underscores the challenges and opportunities associated with developing and maintaining such advanced military assets. This collaboration also highlights the complexities of arms control and the potential for technology transfer to impact regional stability.
Looking ahead, the integration of the INS Drakon into the Israeli Navy will undoubtedly reshape the strategic calculus in the Eastern Mediterranean. The submarine’s capabilities will enhance Israel's ability to monitor regional threats, protect its maritime interests, and deter potential adversaries. However, the acquisition also raises questions about the potential for an arms race in the region and the broader implications for maritime security. How will neighboring nations respond to this enhanced Israeli capability, and will it lead to further investment in submarine technology or alternative defense measures? The development and deployment of increasingly sophisticated submarine fleets will continue to shape the future of naval warfare and demand careful consideration of the broader geopolitical consequences.
Israel has received the INS Drakon, the sixth and final Dolphin II-class submarine built for the Israeli Navy by Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS).
The submarine was delivered last week, according to reports. Its arrival completes Israel’s Dolphin II submarine programme and adds the country’s most expensive submarine to its fleet.
The INS Drakon was originally expected to arrive in 2025. It cost an estimated €550 million ($634 million) and is more than 230 feet (70 metres) long, with a weight of over 2,000 tons.
It is also the largest submarine of its kind built in Germany since World War II, according to the information provided.
Israel and Germany continue their long-running defence cooperation and prepare for the next stage of Israel’s submarine fleet.
Larger hull gives the submarine more space
The Drakon has a larger hull that provides more room for its crew, fuel and equipment.
The additional space is expected to support longer missions and give the Israeli Navy more flexibility when operating farther from Israeli waters.
The submarine joins five other Dolphin II-class vessels already serving in the Israeli Navy.
Germany to build Israel’s next submarines
Israel signed a deal with TKMS in 2022 covering the INS Drakon and three future Dakar-class submarines.
The overall agreement was worth about €3 billion, with Germany expected to finance around 20% of the cost.
Germany has supplied Israel with submarines for decades, making TKMS an important partner in the development of Israel’s undersea fleet.
The two countries have continued their defence cooperation despite international pressure on countries to reduce military cooperation with Israel.
Dakar-class submarines expected from 2031
Israel is expected to begin receiving its next-generation Dakar-class submarines in 2031.
The first of the three submarines is scheduled to arrive that year, with the other two expected at intervals of about 18 months.
The Dakar-class vessels will eventually replace the Dolphin, Leviathan and Tekuma submarines, which entered service between 1999 and 2000.
Those submarines have been part of Israel’s naval forces for more than two decades. The new Dakar-class vessels are expected to bring updated systems and additional capabilities as the older submarines are gradually retired.
Defence partnership extends beyond submarines
Germany’s defence relationship with Israel also includes the Arrow 3 missile defence system.
Germany bought the Israeli-developed interceptor for about €4 billion. The system is designed to destroy ballistic missiles outside the atmosphere.
Between 2021 and 2025, Germany was Israel’s second-largest defence export customer, according to the information provided.
References: interestingengineering, indiandefencereview
Read on the original site
Open the publisher's page for the full experience