German arms export licences for Israel surge with focus on sub project

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports that Germany authorised nearly 800 million euros, about $913 million, in arms export licences for Israel during the first five months of 2026, exceeding the total approved over the previous 20 months. The figure was confirmed by Berlin in a Federal Foreign Office response to a parliamentary question from the far-right Alternative for Germany party, with most approvals reportedly issued in April and May.

According to the report, more than 60 percent of the approved value is tied to an unidentified “major maritime project”. Analysts cited by Al Jazeera said the likely project is a submarine made by German shipbuilder TKMS. The INS Drakon, a Dolphin II-class submarine built in Kiel, was reportedly handed to the Israeli Navy last week, with an estimated value of 480 million euros. Al Jazeera notes reporting that the submarine may have capabilities relevant to sea-based strategic deterrence, though German ministries declined to comment on the specific licence.

The approvals are politically sensitive because Germany has presented itself as concerned about Israel’s war in Gaza while remaining one of Israel’s closest European defence partners. The article says Berlin’s policy has shifted repeatedly, including a temporary pause on new licences for equipment that could be used in Gaza, followed by a return to case-by-case reviews. Previously approved deliveries continued during that period, according to the report.

Al Jazeera also places the Israel approvals within a broader expansion of German arms exports. Germany approved 13.87 billion euros in arms licences in the first half of 2026, with Ukraine still the largest recipient. Researchers cited by the outlet said economic support for Germany’s defence industry and rising European military demand are key factors shaping export policy.