Netherlands transfers Alkmaar-class mine countermeasure vessel to Ukraine

The vessel has been named Henichesk, honoring a Ukrainian minesweeper that sank while covering a special operations unit during a combat mission in 2022.

Neizhpapa said the new vessel will strengthen Ukraine's mine countermeasure capabilities and contribute to maritime security in the Black Sea and, if necessary, beyond.

"Henichesk will enhance Ukraine's ability to counter mine threats and help ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea," he said.

The transfer brings the total number of mine countermeasure vessels in Ukraine's Navy to five.

The United Kingdom previously transferred the Sandown-class vessels Cherkasy and Chernihiv to Ukraine, while Belgium and the Netherlands provided the Alkmaar-class vessels Melitopol and Mariupol.

The transfer is part of ongoing efforts by Ukraine's international partners to strengthen the country's naval capabilities and support the long-term security of Black Sea shipping routes.