The Israeli Navy welcomed the INS Drakon, its sixth submarine, to the Haifa Naval Base on Thursday following a 23-day voyage from Germany.
Built by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems in Kiel, the Drakon traveled roughly 3,792 nautical miles before reaching its home port. It is the third and final Dolphin AIP-class submarine purchased for the Israeli Navy and is equipped for extended underwater operations at greater distances.
President Isaac Herzog, Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir attended the arrival ceremony. Katz called the submarine’s arrival a clear warning to Iran and others seeking to threaten the Jewish state.
“Distance does not grant immunity, not in the air, not on land, and not at sea,” Katz said.
The vessel will now undergo the Navy’s operational integration process. Israeli officials said its advanced systems, stealth and endurance will strengthen the country’s ability to confront threats far beyond its shores.
