Israeli Navy Ensures Operational Readiness of Its Vessels

One of the Navy's most advanced submarines underwent maintenance and was "sent out to sea to carry out incredible missions" in an official ceremony

Routine maintenance of one of the Israeli Navy's most advanced vessels, the Tanin (Crocodile) submarine, was completed this week in a special ceremony. Famous worldwide for its capability to adapt to a wide variety of missions, the submarine was returned to the sea and to routine operational activity. The Israeli Navy invests in the maintenance of its vessels so as to ensure operational readiness and continues preparations to receive additional submarines.

Submarines are deployed for military use for 30 years, and undergo reparations and maintenance treatments every 15 years. The treatment is beneficial to the normal operation of the submarines, which are constantly active. During the treatment, which lasts 22 months, the submarine is completely disassembled, enabling for an extremely thorough repair. "We take apart the submarines, work on them, clean them and repaint," explained Lt. Col. A, commander of the submarine maintenance squad.

"An extremely limited number of militaries possess the knowledge and necessary capabilities to carry out such a repair and even fewer navies perform these treatments," explained commander of the submarine flotilla, Col. G. "The goal is to take apart the submarine and after almost two years put it back together, return it to the sea, and sail. You are the ones who completed this difficult task and I thank you for your high-quality work. Today the Tanin submarine goes out to sea to carry out incredible operations."

The submarine underwent thorough assessments at sea, and after receiving approval from the Israeli Navy Commander, went out to sea.

Maintaining vessels and preparing to receive three additional submarines requires additional manpower, and the Israeli Navy is preparing accordingly. "We must change our perception and fortify our manpower, in order to increase availability of submarines at sea," said dock commander, Col. Eli Shuach at the ceremony. Dozens of soldiers and workers are expected to arrive at the dock, expediting operation.