Support for Israel’s Defence and European Defence Cooperation

That the Parliament recognises the arrival of the INS Drakon, Israel’s newest and largest submarine, at the Israeli naval base in Haifa following its 3,792-nautical-mile voyage from Germany; notes that the 74-metre submarine, weighing approximately 2,600 tonnes, was constructed by the German shipbuilder, Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, following around 12 years of development; further notes that its air-independent propulsion system  allows it to remain submerged for extended periods without surfacing; welcomes the longstanding defence, engineering and technological cooperation between European countries and Israel; recognises the contribution of Germany and other European partners to Israel’s defence capabilities and security; commends the European engineers, manufacturers, skilled workers and defence industries involved in the development and construction of advanced naval capabilities; thanks Scotland’s European neighbours for providing Israel with important defence capabilities and for supporting Israel’s security, and recognises the importance of continued support for Israel and its ability to maintain the strong defensive capabilities necessary to protect its people and national security.