German and Israeli officials at the launch
Photo: credit of Defense Ministry's Spokesperson
Israel gets 5th German submarine
Vessel is expected to reach Israel only in 2013; Germany approved sale of sixth submarine, expected to arrive in Israel by 2017
An official ceremony was held in the German city of Kiel Monday to mark the handover of a fifth submarine to Israel's Navy. The ceremony was attended by Defense Ministry Director Udi Shani, Navy Commander Gen. Ram Rotenberg and other Israeli officials, along with their German counterparts.
In May 2011, a special ministerial committee decided to accept the recommendations of Defense Minister Ehud Barak , who promoted its purchase. Israel already operates four Dolphine-class submarines.
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The vessel is due a process of further development overseen by the Defense Ministry in collaboration with the Navy. It is expected to reach Israel within several months and dock at the Haifa Port.
"Rahav" is considered one of the most advanced submarines in the world and is the most expensive war vessel Ministry of Defense has procured for the IDF . The diesel-powered submarines are widely regarded as an Israeli vanguard against foes like Iran.
Last year the German government approved the sale of a sixth submarine, which is expected to arrive in Israel by 2017.
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