Why is Israel's navy small relative to its army and air force despite its coastline?
Short answerLand-border threats dominate the defence balance, while other Mediterranean powers also help secure the trade routes Israel uses.
NotesThe explanation starts with Israel's land borders and nearby opponents, which dominate its defence concerns. Naval forces have a supporting role within that balance. The answer also argues that Israel benefits from other Mediterranean powers protecting shared trade routes. It therefore links the navy's relative size to immediate land threats and to maritime security supplied by others.