Photo: Ukraine has received another mine-hunting vessel from the Netherlands
The Ukrainian Navy has officially added another minehunter to its fleet, donated by the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The Ukrainian naval flag has already been ceremoniously raised on the new minesweeper, named “Henichesk.”
The transfer of the vessel took place as part of the Maritime Capabilities Coalition, which works systematically to strengthen maritime security.
Commanders of the naval forces of the Netherlands, Belgium, Romania, Lithuania, and Latvia participated in the official flag-raising ceremony.
The new ship of the Ukrainian Navy was named after the Ukrainian Navy’s harbor minesweeper of the same name, which was lost heroically while performing a combat mission, covering its comrades from a special forces unit.
With the addition of this vessel, the Ukrainian Navy now has five mine countermeasure ships, significantly expanding the fleet’s operational capabilities.
According to Oleksiy Neizhpap, the "Henichesk" will significantly strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities in mine countermeasures, particularly in the areas of searching for and detecting sea mines, neutralizing explosive objects in the water, and ensuring the safety of civilian shipping.
The commander expressed his deep gratitude to foreign partners for the high-quality preparation of the vessel prior to its transfer to the Ukrainian side.
“I thanked the Dutch crew for their service, for taking care of the ship, and for keeping it in excellent condition. I assured them that with the Ukrainian crew, it will continue to perform its tasks with distinction and contribute to security in the Black Sea and, if necessary, beyond its borders,” Vice Admiral Neizhpapa emphasized.
An important feature of minesweepers of this class is their unique hull design, adapted for hazardous conditions.
It is made of non-magnetic materials—polyester-based fiberglass—which significantly reduces the risk of triggering mines with magnetic detonators.
The ship’s superstructure is made entirely of lightweight alloys, which reduces weight and improves maneuverability.
This was announced by Vice Admiral Oleksiy Neizhpapa, Commander of the Ukrainian Navy.
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