Israel‘s nautical armed forces are proud to add to their fleet the cutting-edge Dolphin-class stealth submarine, which will considerably enhance the navy’s capabilities.
The Israeli Navy’s newest submarine, the INS Tanin (Crocodyle), is about to reach Israel’s shores. The navy’s fourth submarine, a Dolphin-class which was assembled in Germany, was launched in a special ceremony and is now on its way to Israel. It is expected to anchor at Haifa’s port on September 23, where it will be welcomed in an official ceremony. Israeli Navy commander Vice Adm. Ram Rothberg joined the Tanin for the first few hours of its voyage.
The submarine is to make most of its 4,000-mile journey underwater with no stop on the way, a testimony to its unique capabilities.
The submarine showcases unprecedented capabilities, making the navy faster and stronger in the face of threats. A Dolphin-class submarine is 68 meters long and weighs 2,300 tons. It can dive to a depth of over 200 meters and costs around $500,000,000. The submarine is propelled by the Air Independent Propulsion system and carries an extra fuel tank that allows it to stay submerged for extended periods.
Deeper, Longer, Stronger
“Our forces at sea are more prepared than ever to defend the People of Israel,” an IDF spokesman stated proudly. “The submarine fleet will double its capabilities, reach longer distances, dive deeper, and achieve a level of strength we haven’t seen until today,” said Israel Navy Commander Rothberg.
The Tanin still needs to be outfitted with Israeli systems, a process expected to take several months.
INS Tanin will rendezvous with other Israeli Navy vessels 270 miles off the coast of Israel to hold a memorial service for the crew of the INS Dakar, which tragically sank in 1968.
The navy’s fifth submarine, the Rahav, is due to be delivered in six months. A sixth submarine launching is slated for 2019. The anticipated arrival in Israel of the Tanin marks the culmination of a seven-year joint submarine project between Israel and Germany.
Author: Aryeh Savir
Staff Writer, United with Israel