Germany agrees to sell submarines to Egypt despite Israeli opposition

The German government has agreed to sell its Egyptian counterpart two Type-209 submarines in the face of Israeli opposition to the deal. The sale is expected to net Germany around €700 million (more than $913 million).

Der Spiegel reported on Monday that Berlin agreed to supply Egypt with two of what are the most powerful diesel submarines in the world, each weighing between 1,100 and 1,400 tons. The German newspaper noted that Germany’s move has created tension with the Israeli government.

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According to Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle, Germany cannot tie itself to Israel’s position regarding arms sales to Middle East countries. Israel is keen to ensure that its own navy maintains superior capabilities to Egypt’s and has tried to block the sale.