Israel News
Meet INS Dragon, Israel’s Newest and Most Advanced Submarine
INS Dragon, the Israeli Navy’s sixth submarine, is arriving in Israel after more than 12 years of construction and testing in Germany. It is now expected to undergo another two to three months of training before entering full service.
(Photo: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit)The Israeli Navy is adding a sixth submarine: INS Dragon is arriving in Israel and will join the submarine flotilla as the third Dolphin AIP-model submarine. Its arrival completes the second generation of Israeli Navy submarines built in Germany. The Navy says it "combines advanced technological capabilities and expands the range of operational capabilities."
Dragon is more than 70 meters long and is about 30% larger than the Dolphin-class submarines. It is equipped with an air-independent propulsion system, which makes it possible to generate energy and recharge its batteries using oxygen and hydrogen during an extended stay underwater, without needing to surface or use outside air. This allows it to remain concealed in the depths for longer periods.
(צילום: דובר צה״ל)The submarine’s construction took more than 12 years, followed by months of testing and preparations after it was completed. Israeli teams have spent the past two years in Germany, sailing the submarine and carrying out tests and evaluations. The project also faced delays: Denmark and Norway did not allow the submarine to pass through their territories, even though it bore a German emblem. This delayed the project by several months and is also affecting the next project.
Israeli involvement in the program has continued for about 20 years. An Israeli project administration operates in Germany and oversees the planning, construction, and testing, while naval officers and engineers are stationed in the country for periods of several years with their families. During the sea-trial stages, the submarine flotilla’s operating crews also join. The German Navy, the German Ministry of Defense, and the professional bodies involved in construction also took part in the project.
Upon arriving in Israel, Dragon will not immediately enter full activity. The Israeli Navy estimates that it will need another two to three months of training and operational preparation before joining the fleet in full operational capacity. At the same time, the flotilla points to another challenge: retaining personnel and ensuring that crew members remain in service, against the backdrop of the military’s manpower shortage.
(צילום: דובר צה״ל)
(צילום: דובר צה״ל)
