Ukraine expects at least five mine countermeasures ships from partners - Navy

Photo: Ukrainian Navy spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk (facebook.com/Taclbery)

The crews of the Chernihiv and Cherkasy minesweepers that Ukraine received from the UK have already been trained and are on duty. The Navy is waiting for three more ships to be delivered by the Netherlands and Belgium, said a spokesman for the Ukrainian Navy Dmytro Pletenchuk.

“The crews (of the Chernihiv and Cherkasy minesweepers – ed.) have been trained and are already on duty. Last year, they received a Level I compatibility assessment with NATO countries. This year, we hope to receive the highest assessment – level II compatibility, which will allow us to work, perform tasks, as part of orders, meaning full compatibility,” said Pletenchuk.

He also commented on the situation regarding the transfer of three more mine countermeasures ships to Ukraine.

“Three more ships are being prepared for delivery from the Netherlands and Belgium to Ukraine. They are currently being prepared, and the crews are starting training on them. So, overall, we plan to receive at least five mine countermeasures ships,” said the navy spokesman.

Maritime coalition

On December 11, 2023, it became known that the UK and Norway are forming a maritime coalition to help Ukraine.

The UK immediately announced the transfer of two Sandown-class minesweepers, 23 speedboats, and 20 Bandvagn BvS 10 articulated tracked all-terrain vehicles to Ukraine.

In April of this year, the UK transferred two Royal Navy minesweepers to Ukraine.