Full Breakdown
Israel Receives Its Largest Submarine, INS Drakon, Boosting Naval Stealth and Reach
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Core Event: Arrival of INS Drakon
In September 2026 the Israeli Navy welcomed its sixth submarine, INS Drakon, at Haifa Naval Base after a 24-day, 3,792-nautical-mile voyage from Kiel, Germany. The ceremony was attended by President Isaac Herzog, Defense Minister Israel Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir and Navy Commander Vice Admiral Eyal Harel. The Dolphin 2-class vessel is the largest in Israel’s fleet at 74 m long and 2,600 t displacement.
Background & Context
The Drakon completes a $2 billion procurement program that began with the first Dolphin-class boats in the early 2000s. A state commission of inquiry found Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed for the sixth submarine on “unfounded assumptions” and bypassed standard acquisition procedures. The name was changed from Dakar after families of the 1968-sunk submarine protested; “Dakar” will be used for a new class slated for delivery from 2031, measuring 84 m and 3,800 t.
Data & Statistics
- Length: 74 m; Displacement: 2,600 t
- Crew: ~50–55 personnel
- Voyage: 3,792 nm over 23–24 days
- Propulsion: air-independent propulsion (AIP) for extended submerged operations
- Current fleet: six submarines; regional comparators – Turkey 14, Egypt 8, Greece 9
- Future additions: three Dakar-class submarines (from 2031) and a request for two more submarines
Official Statements & Responses
Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir linked the acquisition to growing strategic pressures in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb, noting the war has underscored the importance of maritime control. The Navy classified most technical details, stating that integration of Israeli weapons and intelligence systems will take two to three months before the vessel is declared operational.
Criticism & Opposition
The commission concluded the purchase was driven by Netanyahu’s personal agenda rather than an objective defense assessment, fueling debate over the cost-effectiveness of expanding the submarine fleet.
Verbatim Quote
- “The Navy is growing stronger. This is a powerful platform that increases the Israeli Navy’s stealth capabilities,” — Rear Adm. Guy Levy, Navy chief of staff
What’s Next
Israeli systems are slated for installation over the next two to three months, after which the Drakon is expected to become fully operational. The Navy will introduce the three Dakar-class submarines beginning in 2031 and is seeking approval for two additional submarines to further expand its under-sea capabilities.