The Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom will today confirm the transfer of two minehunters to Ukraine from the Royal Navy.
Two minehunters, Sandown-class (MCMV), are being transferred from the Royal Navy to the Armed Forces of Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's ability to operate at sea.
"Two Royal Navy minehunter ships are being transferred from the Royal Navy to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in a move to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to operate at sea," said Defense Minister Grant Shapps.
It is noted that Ukraine will purchase the ships with the assistance of the export credit agency of the United Kingdom.
"These minehunters will deliver vital capability to Ukraine which will help save lives at sea and open up vital export routes, which have been severely limited since Putin launched his illegal full-scale invasion," said Shapps."
The Sandown-class ships are equipped with two diesel engines, providing a maximum speed of 31.4 km/h.
The vessels are fitted with mine-hunting and disposal equipment. Additionally, they are armed with anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weaponry.
Sandown-class ships are part of the naval fleets of the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.
“As an island nation with a proud maritime history, the UK and Royal Navy are particularly well-placed to support this endeavour, which will form part of a series of new coalitions formed between allies to ensure an enduring military commitment in support of Ukraine.”
