Netanyahu Says Israel Has Received Its Sixth Submarine, Signals Plans to Expand Naval Power
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday, October 4, that Israel has received its sixth submarine, signaling ambitions to further strengthen the country’s naval capabilities.
Speaking during a visit to the naval base in Ashdod alongside Defense Minister Israel Katz, Netanyahu said Israeli security officials were requesting additional vessels and other military systems.
Netanyahu expressed his ambition to make Israel a global leader in naval operations, both on the surface and underwater.
“We will protect the State of Israel from the sea as well,” Netanyahu said.
The Israeli leader highlighted growing maritime security concerns, including threats to ports, commercial shipping routes and Mediterranean waters. He also pointed to the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait amid rising regional tensions.
His remarks suggest that Israel is considering further investment in its naval forces as maritime security becomes an increasingly important part of its defense strategy.
However, Netanyahu did not announce a specific new procurement program, budget or timeline for acquiring additional submarines and other naval systems.