Thyssenkrupp to Build Three Dakar-class Submarines for Israeli Navy

Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems has reached an agreement with the Israeli Ministry of Defence for the purchase of three Dakar-class submarines.

After extensive negotiations, all parties involved agreed to the technical content and contractual provisions on Thursday.

The Dakar class will be of a completely new design, which is to be specifically engineered to fulfil the operational requirements of the Israeli Navy. The three submarines will replace the first batch of Dolphin-class submarines.

Dr Rolf Wirtz, CEO thyssenkrupp Marine Systems: “The new class of submarine will provide Israel with the most advanced capabilities, based on an innovative, cutting-edge technology.”

This agreement demonstrates the deep commitment of Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to guarantee Israel’s long-term security, he added.

Before the contract comes into effect, Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems will have to hold intensive talks with its suppliers.

In preparation for the expected order, Thyssenkrupp had already agreed to investments of about 250 million euro for Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems in 2019. Kiel is thus securing its location as an international centre of competence for conventional submarine construction. Construction of a new shipbuilding hall and a fuel-cell production facility is already visible on the shipyard site.