African countries with the most submarines fleet in 2026

2026-02-05 - 15:18

African countries may not rival global naval powers, but the continent maintains a strategic presence underwater, particularly through submarines, which remain vital for maritime security, deterrence, and control over key sea lanes. Several African countries are investing to retain capabilities in this domain. Globally, Russia and the United States lead with 66 submarines each, followed by China with 61, according to Global Firepower. Egypt Egypt leads Africa with eight submarines, the largest fleet on the continent. Ranked 13th globally, its navy operates four modern German-built Type 209/1400 diesel-electric submarines and four upgraded ex-Chinese Romeo-class boats. The modernized fleet, equipped with Western periscopes, passive sonar, and U.S.-made Harpoon missiles, supports intelligence, surveillance, and strike operations across the Mediterranean and Red Sea, while securing the Suez Canal and regional chokepoints. Algeria Algeria follows with six submarines, ranked 16th globally. Its fleet combines four newer Russian Project 636 Varshavyanka (Improved Kilo) submarines with two older Kilo 877EKM vessels, armed with torpedoes, mines, and Kalibr cruise missiles, strengthening sea-denial and offshore energy protection in the western Mediterranean. South Africa South Africa operates three German-built Heroine-class (Type 209/1400) submarines, ranked 34th globally. Commissioned between 2005 and 2008, the fleet is designed for blue-water patrols, anti-submarine warfare, and ISR. Due to maintenance and funding limits, only one vessel is currently operational, but the class remains essential for monitoring the Cape of Good Hope and preserving undersea warfare expertise. Vanguard News