Dragon Class Submarine (Dakar)
Type: submarine
Domain: sea
Country of Origin: Israel
Manufacturer: ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems
First Deployed: 2030
Overview
Next-generation submarine being built by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems in Germany for the Israel Navy, replacing the aging Dolphin I boats and enhancing Israel's underwater capability. The Dragon class is expected to be larger than the Dolphin II at approximately 2,600-3,000 tonnes submerged, featuring enhanced fuel cell AIP with significantly improved submerged endurance, reduced acoustic signature through advanced noise isolation, an enlarged weapons capacity with additional torpedo tubes, and state-of-the-art Israeli combat management and sensor systems. Expected to maintain and enhance the 650mm large-diameter torpedo tube capability for strategic weapons. The programme (valued at approximately $3.4 billion for 3 boats) was controversial in Israeli politics due to corruption allegations surrounding the procurement process. Despite political complications, construction has proceeded with the first boat expected for delivery in the late 2020s. Three boats planned to maintain Israel's continuous at-sea deterrent.
Technical Specifications
| cost | ~$600M+ per boat (estimated) |
|---|---|
| role | Replace aging Dolphin I boats |
| type | Next-Generation Diesel-Electric Attack Submarine |
| features | Advanced AIP; enhanced sensors; cruise missile capability |
| displacement | ~2,500-3,000 tonnes (estimated) |
| manufacturer | ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (Germany) |
Operators
- Israel
Related sea Weapon Systems
- JL-3 SLBM - Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (China)
- IAI Gabriel V - missile (Israel)
- Type 071 Yuzhao - amphibious (China)
- Akya - Heavy Torpedo (Turkey)
- Type 075 LHD - amphibious (China)
- Type 076 LHA - amphibious (China)
- Orka Class Submarine - submarine (Netherlands)
- Type 054A - frigate (China)
- Type 056A Jiangdao - corvette (China)
- AN/SPY-1 - Naval Multi-Function Radar (United States)