Israeli officials recommend expanding submarine fleet amid Turkish naval growth

Israeli security officials have recommended expanding Israel's submarine fleet to eight vessels, citing the growing maritime capacity of the Turkish Naval Forces. According to reports from Israel Army Radio, Turkey currently operates 14 submarines and is expected to increase that number to 18 in the coming years.

Israel currently possesses five submarines, with a sixth expected to arrive soon. Defense officials have proposed to the political leadership that Israel exercise an existing option to purchase a seventh German-made, high-tech submarine at a fixed price before potential cost increases occur. Following that, officials are suggesting the acquisition of an eighth submarine to bolster the fleet.

While the procurement plans are being discussed, internal debates regarding the adequacy of trained personnel for the expanded fleet continue in Israel. High-level defense sources indicate that any major procurement decisions regarding the submarine fleet are likely to be handled by a future government rather than before upcoming elections.