TKMS Delivers Final Dolphin-class Sub INS Drakon to Israel

ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) announced the delivery of the INS Drakon to the Israeli Navy on September 1, 2026. The submarine is the third and final vessel of the HDW Dolphin class equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP).

TKMS stated the submarine has successfully departed from its shipyard in Kiel, Germany, and is now in transit to Israel. The delivery marks the completion of the Dolphin AIP program. Company CEO Oliver Burkhard said the program's conclusion was characterized by "trust, technological expertise, and shared responsibility."

A Long-Standing Naval Partnership

The delivery shows a decades-long defense cooperation between Germany and Israel. TKMS has built several generations of naval vessels for Israel, including the Dolphin-class submarines and Sa'ar 6-class corvettes. According to the company's press release, Israel is an important maritime partner.

Work is already progressing on the next generation of submarines for the Israeli Navy, known as the DAKAR class. Production of the first DAKAR-class submarine began several years ago. TKMS stated this new program continues the evolving partnership, adapting to changing maritime requirements.

Reported New Missile Capability

While official details are classified, Naval News reports the INS Drakon introduces a significant new strategic weapons capability. Analysis of the submarine's design suggests its unusually large sail may house vertical launch tubes for new missiles.

The outlet reports these may be submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). This would provide Israel with a more survivable sea-based strategic strike option. The exact configuration and missile type have not been officially confirmed by Israeli authorities.

Evolution of the Dolphin-class Design

The reported ballistic-missile capability represents a major evolution for the class. Israel's earlier Dolphin submarines are widely believed to carry submarine-launched cruise missiles, reportedly launched from four enlarged torpedo tubes. These vessels are considered a key part of the nation's nuclear deterrent.

The potential combination of cruise and ballistic missile systems aboard the INS Drakon could offer the Israeli Navy a more flexible and survivable strategic deterrent. With the Dolphin AIP program complete, focus now shifts to the construction of the new DAKAR-class submarines.