Britain, together with Norway, has led a new 'maritime coalition' to assist Ukraine. The new alliance will provide the Ukrainian Armed Forces with ships and other transport means to enhance their capabilities for conducting naval operations.
Ministry of Defense of Britain reports this.
"This capability boost marks the beginning of a new dedicated effort by the UK, Norway and our allies to strengthen Ukraine’s maritime capabilities over the long term, enhancing their ability to operate in defending their sovereign waters and bolstering security in the Black Sea," the statement from the British defense department says.
It is emphasized that the blockade of the Black Sea by Russia has significantly reduced Ukraine's ability to export goods by sea. Therefore, strengthening the maritime capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including countering the threat from Russian naval mines, will help restore Ukraine's maritime exports.
"The new Maritime Capability Coalition will build the support that the UK, Norway, and others are providing to Ukraine. This will be long term to help Ukraine transform its navy, making it more compatible with western allies, more interoperable with NATO, and bolstering security in the Black Sea," said British Defense Minister Grant Shapps.
It is reported that the 'maritime coalition' will also closely collaborate with the Ukrainian Navy and the Ministry of Defense to develop a range of capabilities, including the rapid development of naval forces in the Black Sea, the modernization of the Ukrainian Marine Corps, and river patrol boats to protect coastal areas, as well as inland waterways.