The IDF commissioned the INS Drakon, Israel's sixth submarine, at a Haifa ceremony where Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir warned that Iran and its proxies continue to pose a threat. President Isaac Herzog said the Drakon and future submarines expand Israel's operational reach and represent the Navy's future. The project reflects close industrial cooperation with Germany, after extensive work at the Kiel shipyard, and included a tribute to the 69 sailors lost with the Dakar in 1968.
INS Drakon Commissioned: Israel Bolsters Naval Reach as IDF Warns Iran Remains a Threat
New German-made Israeli submarine
The Israel Defense Forces formally commissioned the INS Drakon, Israel's sixth submarine, in a ceremony at the Haifa naval base on Thursday. Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir called the vessel's integration a central force-building move and warned that Israel continues to monitor developments in Iran and its regional proxies closely.
Enhanced Capabilities and Strategic Reach
Zamir said the Drakon significantly enhances the Israeli Navy's maritime readiness and operational reach. "With the integration of the INS Drakon into the Navy, the Navy reaches improved maritime readiness and new heights in its capabilities and operational strength: more covert, farther-reaching, deeper and more lethal," he said, adding that recent Israeli operations have strengthened deterrence and expanded operational options.
"Even these days, our eyes are open toward what is happening in Iran and among its proxies. The Iranian regime is hurt and wounded, but has not learned to change its intentions." — Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir
President's Remarks and German Cooperation
President Isaac Herzog described the Drakon as "a glimpse into the future" of the Navy and said the submarine — together with additional vessels due to arrive — will broaden Israel's operational capabilities. He emphasized that the expanded reach could be employed when necessary, including at ranges "thousands of kilometers from Israel's borders."
The Israeli Navy unveils the new INS "Drakon" submarine at the German Naval Yards Holdings in Kiel, Germany, November 12, 2024 (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
Herzog highlighted the close industrial and defense cooperation with Germany, noting that Israeli sailors and technicians worked alongside German partners at the Kiel shipyard. He thanked military and government leaders, as well as representatives of the German government and the shipbuilder, for their roles in delivering the submarine.
Tribute to the Dakar and the Human Element
The ceremony included a solemn tribute to the 69 members of the crew of the Dakar, a submarine that disappeared in 1968. Herzog said their memory inspired and continues to shape Israel's submarine community.
"Today, when the Drakon submarine is entrusted to you, the fighters of the submarine flotilla... we remember one clear principle: the person determines. The person operating the machine ... is the one who will always bring victory and the ability to complete the mission in full." — President Isaac Herzog
The IDF noted the Drakon was unveiled at German Naval Yards Holdings in Kiel on November 12, 2024, and built with the involvement of German firms, including Thyssenkrupp. While technology provides new capability, leaders reiterated that trained, motivated crews remain decisive.
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