The Ukrainian Navy have signaled readiness to join a potential international demining operation in the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, offering at least two mine countermeasure vessels for the mission.
Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk confirmed that the vessels in question have already completed the necessary crew training and, importantly, passed external evaluations for NATO interoperability. This certification enables them to operate effectively in multinational environments alongside allied navies.
Read more: Netherlands to Transfer Alkmaar-Class Minehunter to Ukraine, Future Henichesk to Boost Naval Demining
The development follows reports that Ukrainian minehunters currently stationed in Portsmouth could be integrated into a broader mission led by the United Kingdom and France. The operation is aimed at restoring safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, where maritime traffic has been disrupted amid escalating hostilities involving Iran.
Ukrainian naval officers are also expected to participate in a multinational planning summit at the UK's Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood. According to available information, representatives from more than 30 countries will convene to coordinate contributions and define operational roles in securing one of the world's most vital maritime chokepoints.
Dmytro Pletenchuk clarified that Ukraine's role would focus specifically on mine countermeasure tasks. The vessels are equipped with modern systems designed to detect, identify, and neutralize mines and mine-like objects, including through the use of remotely operated underwater vehicles.
Ukraine's Navy brings significant practical experience to such missions. Its personnel have been actively engaged in demining operations in the Black Sea since the start of russia's full-scale invasion, gaining operational knowledge under real combat conditions.
The Navy has also consistently demonstrated its capabilities during multinational exercises such as Sea Breeze, where mine clearance operations have been a central focus. This background further strengthens Ukraine's case as a capable partner in international maritime security efforts.
By June 2026, Ukraine is expected to operate five mine countermeasure vessels transferred by partner countries, including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Belgium. While these ships are currently based in the UK, they are intended to play a crucial role in future demining efforts in the Black Sea after the war, while also enabling Ukraine to contribute to international operations such as the one proposed in the Strait of Hormuz.
Read more: Netherlands Strengthens Ukraine's Navy with Alkmaar-Class Minehunter: Second Vessel Due by 2025
