Israel and Germany sign contract for sixth Dolphin class submarine

: Posted On Monday, 06 February 2012 10:06

World Naval Forces News - Israel

Israel and Germany sign contract for sixth Dolphin class submarine

Israel and Germany signed a contract a few weeks ago finalizing the sale of a sixth Dolphin class submarine to the Israel Navy, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post.

The Defense Ministry initiated talks with Germany last year about buying a sixth submarine but Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government initially balked when Israel asked that it underwrite part of the cost. In late November, though, Germany announced that it had approved the deal and that it would pay for part of the vessel.

Israel and Germany signed a contract a few weeks ago finalizing the sale of a sixth Dolphin class submarine to the Israel Navy, according a report in The Jerusalem Post.

One of the three Dolphin class Submarine (SSK) currently in service in the Israeli Navy. Three more are to be delivered.
(picture: Internet)

Christian Schmidt, secretary of state for defense, told the Post that the contract was signed a few weeks ago and that Germany had agreed to subsidize its cost. Calling Israel a “preferred customer,” Schmidt said the sale of the submarine was a demonstration of his country’s commitment to Israel’s security.

“The security of the State of Israel is a German concern and this will not change,” he said during a visit to Israel during which he met with Israeli diplomatic and defense officials and attended the Herzliya Conference.
From: The Jerusalem Post