The Ukrainian crew of the Navy has completed training on the Dutch minehunter Zr.Ms. Makkum. A total of 35 sailors participated in the training.
This was reported by the Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands.
The sailors became familiar with the minehunter and underwent training in preparation for future service aboard the ship. The training lasted for two months and has now been successfully completed. The training included instructors and NATO translators.
In addition to the ship’s crew, technical personnel also underwent training, but it took place in Belgium. As part of its assistance to Ukraine, the Netherlands will transfer the Zr.Ms. Makkum and Zr.Ms. Vlaardingen to Kyiv in 2025.
Both minehunters belong to the Alkmaar class of ships and have a maximum displacement of 588 tons. Their hulls are made from polyester reinforced with fiberglass. This material ensures a high level of safety by minimizing the magnetic signature of the ships, helping to avoid the detonation of underwater magnetic mines.
The Netherlands has been actively supporting Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. The assistance includes supplying weapons, ammunition, and military equipment, including air defense systems, armored vehicles, and artillery. Amsterdam has also allocated significant financial resources for Ukraine's humanitarian needs, infrastructure restoration, and energy sector recovery.
Additionally, the Netherlands supports Ukraine diplomatically by pushing for stronger sanctions against Russia and assisting in the investigation of war crimes.
