Lebanese Navy

The Lebanese Navy is the naval warfare of the Lebanese Armed Forces. Formed in 1950, it traces its heritage to the maritime civilization of Phoenicia; its flag depicts a Phoenician ship with the Lebanese Cedar tree, positioned on an anchor above the Arabic inscription of the navy's name. Headquartered at Beirut Naval Base, Lebanon's first and largest naval base, the navy has posts Tripoli, Saida, and Tyr.

The Lebanese Navy is charged with several missions, including securing and aiding communications and navigation to Lebanese ports; defending Lebanon's exclusive economic zone, regional waters, and coast from any naval military aggression; fighting terrorism, illegal immigration, smuggling, and drug trafficking; protecting commercial vessels; providing naval support and early warning to security forces participating in joint military operations; and protecting natural resources and national interests along the coast and the regional waters.

The Lebanese Navy has approximately 69 vessels of various sizes and roles, most of which are outdated and deemed unfit for modern service; however, it has embarked on a modernization and expansion program in partnership with the United States, France, the United Nations, and other allies. The navy has also sought to enhance its capabilities, engaging in joint exercises with the United States in 2022, and opening a new naval academy with Germany assistance the following year.