Defense Establishment Recommends Expanding Israel's Submarine Fleet to Eight

Israel's defense establishment has recommended expanding the Navy to eight submarines in simultaneous service, according to reports citing Army Radio. Israel currently operates five, while the sixth, INS Drakon, is en route, and officials reportedly favor exercising an option for a seventh at the existing contract price before seeking an eighth. The reports estimate each submarine at about €1 billion and cite Turkey's projected growth from 14 to 18 German-built submarines, the changed regional environment and lessons from October 7. Officials said the proposal would advance only after Israel's October election.