Israel has received its most advanced submarine, the INS Drakon, from Germany, which is expected to enhance its underwater strike and reconnaissance capabilities amid regional threats. The submarine, part of the Dolphin AIP class, was delivered by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) at its shipyard in Kiel, Germany, in late July 2026. It measures over 70 meters (230 feet) in length and has a displacement exceeding 2,000 tons, making it the largest submarine built in Germany since World War II, with a reported cost of $634 million.
The INS Drakon is designed to provide a vital sea-based layer of deterrence and retribution, particularly concerning Iran. Dr. Ehud Eilam, a national security expert, emphasized the importance of maintaining a continuous undersea presence for Israel's national survival, especially in scenarios where the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) could be compromised.
The submarine's capabilities include intelligence and reconnaissance missions across the Mediterranean Sea, with a focus on readiness for potential high-stakes scenarios. The name Drakon, meaning Dragon, symbolizes strength and power and honors the legacy of the submarine INS Dakar and its crew. The delivery of the INS Drakon aligns with Israel's strategy to project military power across various operational theaters.