Ukraine to receive 2 military ships from Britain: Details
Ukraine will receive two military ships from Britain (photo: UK Ministry of Defence)
The Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom will today confirm the transfer of two Royal Navy minehunters to Ukraine for demining, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
The transfer of two Sandown-class minehunters (MCMV) from the Royal Navy to the Armed Forces of Ukraine aims to strengthen Ukraine's maritime capabilities. The move, particularly focusing on countering the threat from Russian naval mines, is expected to assist in the restoration of Ukraine's maritime exports.
"Strengthening the maritime capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, especially countering the threat from Russian naval mines, will help restore Ukraine's maritime exports," stated Defence Minister Grant Shapps.
It is noted that the ships will be purchased by Ukraine with the assistance of the export credit agency of the United Kingdom.
"These ships will provide a crucial capability to Ukraine, helping to save lives at sea and open vital export routes that have been severely restricted since Putin began his illegal full-scale invasion," said Shapps.
Sandown-class ships (MCMV)
The Sandown-class ships are equipped with two diesel engines, providing a maximum speed of 31.4 km/h.
These vessels are fitted with minesweeping equipment for the detection and neutralization of mines. Additionally, they feature anti-aircraft and anti-submarine armaments.
The Sandown-class ships are part of the naval fleets of the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.
Assistance from the United Kingdom to Ukraine
We previously reported that the United Kingdom and Norway have formed a maritime coalition to assist Ukraine. The alliance will strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in conducting maritime operations.
Additionally, we reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces received Martlet missiles from the United Kingdom, which will aid in more effectively combating drones.
Earlier, we informed that, according to the UK Foreign Minister David Cameron, Britain intends to maintain or even increase its level of assistance to Ukraine.
By the way, in the summer of 2022, it became known that the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom is training Ukrainian military personnel to operate two minehunters of the Sandown class for demining.
