According to information published by Israel Shipyards on July 25, 2024, the Senegalese navy has received a 24-meter Landing Craft from the Israeli company. They arrived at the Dakar naval base after a voyage from Haifa.
The Gulf of Guinea, where Senegal is located, faces persistent threats from piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes. The new LCM vessels are a vital addition to Senegal’s naval fleet, designed to improve its ability to conduct coastal and riverine operations, thus bolstering the security of its territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The LCM vessels are part of a broader strategy by Senegal to modernize its naval forces. Previously, Senegal has procured advanced vessels such as the Shaldag MK II and MK V from Israel, which are equipped for a range of missions including patrol, interdiction, and special operations.
For Israel, continuing to fulfill its defense contracts during times of conflict serves multiple strategic purposes. Firstly, it demonstrates Israel Shipyards Ltd.’s reliability and commitment to delivering on its promises. This reliability is crucial for maintaining and expanding its market presence globally, especially in regions that require robust security solutions.
Secondly, these deliveries reflect Israel’s broader strategic interest in maintaining strong defense relationships with countries in Africa and beyond. By supporting the defense needs of nations like Senegal, Israel not only fosters bilateral relations but also contributes to regional stability.