The Power to Paralyze a State, by Sea: The Navy Commander's New Vision and the Lesson from the Hormuz Blockade
A visit to the largest naval exercise since October 7 reveals the Navy's new concept: the maritime arena as a strategic center of gravity. The Navy commander, Maj. Gen. Eyal Harel, is advancing a plan to expand the missile boat fleet from 15 to 21, aiming to become a regional maritime power. The lesson from the Hormuz blockade underscores the ability to paralyze states through the sea.
During a visit to the Navy's most extensive service-wide exercise since October 7, the maritime arena is described as a strategic center of gravity. About 98% of Israel's goods arrive by sea, and the exercise included over a thousand soldiers practicing defense of gas rigs and deep strikes. The Navy commander, Maj. Gen. Eyal Harel, is advancing a plan to expand the missile boat fleet from 15 to 21, including the purchase of 'Reshef' ships and international collaborations. The lesson from the Hormuz blockade and threats in Bab el-Mandeb highlight the ability to paralyze states through the sea. The Navy also deals with protest flotillas, isolating boats and stopping activists. The soldiers are described as cohesive and dedicated, but investment in force building is required to become a maritime power.