Barak signs contract during ceremony in Germany: “This sixth submarine will substantially increase the capabilities and strength of the IDF and Israel.”

Israel and Germany on Wednesday signed a contract for the sixth military submarine purchased by the Israeli navy. Defense Minister Ehud Barak, Defense Ministry Director-General Udi Shani and German State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Defense Rudiger Wolf attended the ceremony.

After signing the contract Barak said: “This sixth submarine will substantially increase the capabilities and strength of the IDF and the State of Israel in the face of ever-increasing challenges.”

“The agreement reflects the depth of Israel and Germany’s relationship, as well as the German government’s clear commitment to the State of Israel’s security. In recent years, Israel’s navy has been undergoing strategic changes that place it as the long arm of the IDF, positioned at the forefront of the campaign to secure the State of Israel,” he continued.

Israel operates three German-built Dolphin submarines, manufactured by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft (HDW), a unit of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, and expects delivery of two more shortly. The vessels are considered a vanguard against foes like Iran.

Israel’s purchase of a sixth submarine had been widely expected, although discussions over the degree of Germany’s contribution drew out the process.

“A further boat will be delivered to Israel and there will be financial help. It is part of the budget and is therefore a public action,” de Maiziere said.

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