An Israeli Navy Dolphin class submarine surfaced off the coast of Eilat in in the Red Sea recently, in a rare public appearance, drawing the attention of beachgoers and swimmers along the Red Sea shore. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated the submarine was conducting routine operational activities in the area, and the surfacing footage was cleared for publication by the military censor. Israeli Dolphin submarines are typically stationed at the main naval base in Haifa up north, making a southern Red Sea appearance uncommon. The sighting occurred amid heightened security alerts and regional friction involving missile threats in the wider area.
The Israeli navy’s German-built Dolphin-type submarines play a critical strategic role in Israel’s ongoing multi-front war, particularly as a deterrent against Iran and its proxies. These very advanced submarines carry systems that are highly classified. One system is the advanced sonar developed by Israeli company Rafael. Sources said that this sonar has “much enhanced capabilities”, achieved by the integration of AI. According to the sources this very advanced sonar this sonar uses AI algorithms to filter background noise, detect low-noise-signature vessels and learn from previous encounters to enhance detection performance over time. Foreign media reports that these advanced diesel-electric subs, equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP) for extended underwater operations, enhance Israel’s second-strike nuclear capability and maritime deterrence.
In the current conflict, the subs contribute to intelligence gathering, covert surveillance of enemy coastlines, and precision strikes with long-range missiles or torpedoes. Their stealth allows them to protect offshore gas rigs and patrol key Mediterranean and Gulf routes amid threats from Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iran-backed forces. These advanced submarines ensure the Israeli capability to retaliate even if land-based assets are compromised, signaling to adversaries like Iran that a nuclear first strike would not go unanswered. Reports indicate at least one Dolphin sub has been deployed in the Gulf to counter potential Iranian escalation. The German-built submarines operated by Israel can launch several types of missiles, most notably the Israeli-designed Popeye Turbo submarine-launched cruise missiles (SLCMs). These missiles have an estimated range of at least 1,500 km.
Arie Egozi
