OVERVIEW: The Dolphin [Type 800] is a diesel-electric submarine operated by the Israeli Navy. It represents a significant upgrade in capability compared to previous Israeli submarine acquisitions, providing a potent and discreet platform for a variety of missions.

DETAILS:
The Dolphin class submarines were developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a collaborative effort between Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft (HDW) of Germany and Israel. The program was initiated to replace the aging Gal-class submarines, with the German government providing substantial financial assistance as a gesture of reconciliation for World War II. The design emphasizes quietness and endurance, crucial for operating in the complex and contested waters of the Eastern Mediterranean. While publicly acknowledged as conventional diesel-electric submarines, persistent speculation suggests that the later Dolphin variants may incorporate an Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, significantly enhancing their submerged endurance and operational range. The Type 800 designation reflects the specific configuration of these submarines for the Israeli Navy.

The primary roles of the Dolphin class include anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), intelligence gathering, and potentially, the delivery of strategic deterrent capabilities. Their low acoustic signature makes them well-suited for covert operations and surveillance tasks. The 533mm torpedo tubes are capable of launching a variety of torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, while the larger 650mm tubes are rumored to be adaptable for launching other payloads, reinforcing speculation about a potential strategic deterrent role. The submarine's sophisticated sensor suite contributes significantly to its operational effectiveness in these diverse roles.

The Dolphin class’s operational effectiveness is greatly enhanced by its sensor suite. The Timnex 4CH(V)2 electronic support measures (ESM) system provides comprehensive signal interception and analysis, crucial for identifying and tracking potential threats. The Elta Navigation system offers precise navigational capabilities, essential for covert operations and accurate targeting. The suite of CSU 90 sonars, including Hull, Flank, and IPS (intercept Passive Sonar) arrays, grants excellent situational awareness, facilitating the detection and tracking of both surface and subsurface contacts. The MAS 90 provides active sonar capabilities. Furthermore, the integration of optical and LLTV-equipped periscopes provides critical visual confirmation and surveillance capabilities, supplementing the electronic sensors. The presence of a signal ejector supports covert communications.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 57.3 m || Beam: 6.8 m || Draft: 6.2 m || Disp: 1640 t

SENSORS: Timnex 4CH(V)2 || Elta Navigation || CSU 90 Hull || CSU 90 Flank || IPS CSU 90 || MAS 90 || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector