TKMS launched ‘INS DRAKON’ and started production of the first-in-class ‘DAKAR’ submarine for the Israel Defense Forces.
TKMS press release
The launching of ‘INS DRAKON’, the 3rd submarine of the HDW Class Dolphin AIP submarines for the Israeli Navy, and the start of production of the first Class ‘DAKAR’ submarine in Kiel is another important step in the successful collaboration between ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and the Israeli Defense Forces.
Oliver Burkhard, CEO of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, emphasized the significance of the event: “With Israel, we share a long-standing partnership built on trust and mutual respect. The launching of ‘INS DRAKON’ and the start of production for the first Class ‘DAKAR’ submarine are major milestones that underscore our commitment to delivering submarines that set new technical standards globally. As a ‘Maritime Powerhouse’ we bring together our full spectrum of capabilities – from electronics, to design, to platform integration. The start of production for this submarine marks a new chapter in our collaboration, strengthening our partnership with Israel and further proving the world-class expertise of our teams.”
Guests from Germany and Israel attended the ceremony, further symbolizing the close ties between the two nations. The launching and naming of ‘INS DRAKON’ represents a key achievement in the production of state-of-the-art AIP submarines, which are globally recognized for their innovation, technical excellence and reliability. The start of production of the first Class ‘DAKAR’ submarine signals the continuation of this success and sets the stage for future collaboration and partnership.
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Naval News comments
According to the press release issued by the IDF, the submarine is scheduled to be delivered to the IDF in 2025, after which it will sail to its home port and join its sister vessels as an operational submarine in the Israeli Navy.
The IDF stated that the INS “Drakon” submarine is of the “Dolphin AIP” class and equipped with unique systems, including advanced technologies that expand the range of the IDF’s capabilities across various domains.
“INS Drakon will serve as a cornerstone in ensuring the security of the State of Israel. Seen and unseen, it will dwell in distant and hidden realms for extended periods. This submarine is an additional force multiplier for the capabilities and strength of the Israeli Navy, the IDF, and the State of Israel—facing complex challenges at the most strategic and crucial level for Israel. At this time, significant transformations are taking place in the submarine flotilla. Operational methods are improving, the range of operational capabilities is being enhanced and expanded, and integration with security bodies is accelerating. All of these place the submarine flotilla at the forefront of the campaign for Israel’s security, as the extended arm of the IDF. With the addition of INS Drakon to the depths of our operations, our extended arm grows significantly in length and strength.”
VADM David Saar Salama, Commander in Chief of the Israeli Navy
Check out our previous reporting on INS Drakon by H I Sutton:
