Israel Navy hosts German delegation, vessel at Haifa Naval Base

The Israel Navy welcomed a German Navy delegation and a visiting German vessel to the Port of Haifa, aiming to bolster naval cooperation and professional relationships. The visit, confirmed by the military on Thursday, included a joint Passing Exercise (PASSEX).

During the visit, senior officers from both navies held meetings to discuss ways to strengthen their ties. Key participants included Haifa Naval Base Chief R.-Adm. Erez Ben Zion, Germany's 4th Frigate Squadron Chief Naval Captain Volker Kübsch, and the German vessel's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Rico Geisler. The discussions centered on enhancing operational cooperation, exchanging knowledge, and deepening the professional relationship between the Israeli and German navies.

Israel maintains significant ties with Germany's naval manufacturing industry, having previously purchased corvettes and submarines. In May, Elbit Systems Ltd. announced an expansion of its collaboration with German submarine manufacturer ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems Atlas Elektronic (TKMS). TKMS has supplied Israel with four new submarines and has worked with Israel Aerospace Industries on deals for unmanned submarine vehicles.

This naval exchange highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen defense partnerships in the region. The visit follows other significant naval activities in Haifa, including the docking of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier during joint operations earlier in the year.