Israel's new generation of submarines: Dolphin-class submarinesThe Israeli Navy recently received a new generation of submarines, the Dolphin-class submarines. These submarines will replace the Gal-class submarines commissioned in 1977 and perform blockade, supervision and some special tasks. Well, what are the characteristics of these submarines? First of all, the propulsion system of the Dolphin-class submarines can provide the submarine with an underwater speed of up to 20 knots. When sailing 8 knots on the surface, the range can reach 8000 miles. It can travel 400 miles at 8 knots underwater. The maximum dive depth is 350 meters and the endurance is 30 days. Compared to the Type 212 of the German Navy, the Dolphin class has a similar basic structure, but adds a compartment for divers to enter and exit to accommodate the situation where the Israeli Navy needs to frequently use frogmen for special operations.
At the same time, the "Dolphin" class is equipped with advanced command and control and safety supervision systems, observation systems, sonar systems and noise reduction systems. The average noise level on board is not higher than 127 decibels, which provides a good working environment for all kinds of sonar systems. In addition, the Dolphin class is equipped with advanced weapon systems. It is equipped with an effective propulsion system, so that when cruising underwater at a speed of 6 knots, it can maintain 30 days of non-stop submersion without surfacing, covering a dive distance of 8,800 kilometers. These submarines are single-shaft driven, dive at a maximum speed of 22 knots, and can continue to sprint underwater for an hour at a maximum speed of 20 knots. Its maximum diving depth of 350 meters exceeds that of the same type of submarine in the world. The Dolphin-class submarines probably have the largest number of torpedo tubes of their kind in the world, with 10 tubes and 14 torpedoes.
The Seal torpedo can reach a speed of 35 knots and a range of 13 km, and a range of 25 km at 22 knots. It automatically corrects tracks and performs continuous attacks. In addition, the "Dolphin" class can also launch American-made "Harpoon" submarine-launched missiles, using a sea-skimming flight method, with a Mach number of 0.9 and a range of 130 kilometers. The Harpoon missile, which is equipped with a common warhead with the Tomahawk cruise missile, has better attack and penetration capabilities against shore targets. However, there are concerns about whether the four 650-mm tubes on board are intended to launch nuclear weapons in strategic campaigns. This question remains to be further answered. In short, the addition of the Dolphin-class submarines marks that the Israeli Navy has a more powerful military force.
The emergence of these submarines will not only enhance the deterrent and strength of the Israeli Navy, but also further intensify the arms race in the Middle East.