Two new advanced submarines are about to be put into action this year, according to the IDF Spokesperson.
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Given the threats facing the Jewish State from Gaza and the north, it is none too soon. Iran is busily supplying its proxy terror groups with weaponry at every opportunity, often by sea.
The Dolphin-class INS Crocodile and the INS Rahav were both acquired from Germany in 2012. Both demand updated skills from the soldiers who will submerge below the surface of the sea within their walls.
“These new submarines have new systems and therefore new capabilities,” said Maj. Y, commander of the training school where recruits learn new roles for the control panel and sonar, among other skills. “Among these are greater stealth and the ability to stay longer under water.”
The new submarines use AIP (air independent propulsion) technology that enables them to stay underwater longer. They also produce less noise, are equipped with advanced naval weapons systems, improved detection capabilities, and maneuver more easily.
“They are larger than the previous ones,” he added. “In the event of a clash with strong water currents, the new steering station is designed to allow them to move more easily,” he explained.
One long retraining course took place for veterans, in addition to the regular submariner course, Major Y added. “Each submarine team consists of veterans who qualified in Germany, submariners and other veterans who were retrained, and new soldiers who enlisted when their course was adapted to the new submarines.
“Obviously the goal of the training is to be relevant to the reality in the field,” he said. Treks of six to 20 kilometers, the use of digital simulators and tours in a submarine are included in the training, he added.