Snapir operates close to shore, often in civilian-heavy zones where discretion and precision are essential.

By Hezy Laing

The Snapir Unit is a specialized force within the Israeli Navy, established in 1980 in response to growing threats to Israel’s maritime infrastructure.

Its creation followed a series of attempted infiltrations and sabotage operations targeting Israeli ports and coastal assets, prompting the IDF to form a dedicated unit focused on port security and underwater defense.

The name “Snapir,” meaning “fin” in Hebrew, reflects the unit’s agility and stealth in aquatic environments.

Operating primarily in Israel’s major ports—Haifa, Ashdod, and Eilat—Snapir Unit is tasked with protecting strategic maritime gateways from terrorism, smuggling, and sabotage.

Unlike deep-sea commandos such as Shayetet 13, Snapir operates close to shore, often in civilian-heavy zones where discretion and precision are essential.

The unit conducts vessel inspections, underwater threat detection, and rapid-response operations against potential infiltrators.

Its operatives are trained in advanced diving, underwater navigation, explosive ordnance disposal, and close-quarters combat, enabling them to neutralize threats both above and below the surface.

Snapir Unit plays a vital role in Israel’s layered defense strategy, especially as threats from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah increasingly target maritime infrastructure.

The unit’s presence ensures that ports remain secure during both peacetime and conflict, safeguarding the flow of goods, fuel, and military supplies.

During wartime, Snapir is deployed to prevent underwater incursions and monitor suspicious activity near naval bases and civilian harbors.

Over the years, Snapir has evolved with cutting-edge technology, incorporating sonar systems, remotely operated vehicles, and thermal imaging to enhance its surveillance and interception capabilities.

Though less publicized than other elite units, Snapir remains a cornerstone of Israel’s coastal defense, operating quietly but decisively to protect the nation’s maritime lifelines.

Its creation marked a turning point in Israel’s approach to naval security, ensuring that threats from the sea are met with equal force and vigilance.