Four Ukrainian mine countermeasure vessels based in Portsmouth, UK, could join a multinational mission led by the United Kingdom and France. The primary objective is to clear mines and restore safe shipping in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. This was reported by The Times, citing sources in the defense sector.
According to the publication, Ukrainian naval officers are expected to attend a multinational military summit this Wednesday at the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood. This two-day meeting will bring together representatives from over 30 countries to discuss the mobilization of military assets needed to safeguard global supply chains and protect merchant vessels amid the escalation in the Middle East.
A source within Ukrainian military circles revealed that Kyiv is ready to deploy any of its four available ships for the coalition’s needs. These vessels were acquired by Ukraine to support future demining operations in the Black Sea following the end of the war with Russia. The fleet includes two Sandown-class minehunters transferred by the UK, as well as two Alkmaar-class ships provided by the Netherlands and Belgium.
“We are ready to offer everything we can. We have four minehunters, all in Portsmouth. They physically cannot go to Ukraine. First, they would immediately become target number one for Russian forces. Second, their passage through the Bosporus is blocked due to the Montreux Convention,” the source told The Times.
Ukraine’s potential participation carries significant strategic weight. Kyiv is seeking to strengthen its support for Western allies in the Middle East, proving that Ukraine can act not only as a recipient of military aid but also as an active contributor to global maritime security.
In addition to contributing its naval fleet, the Ukrainian leadership is prepared to offer its unique expertise in asymmetric naval warfare by providing cutting-edge maritime drones, electronic warfare systems, and counter-UAV capabilities. These advanced technologies have proven highly effective against Iranian-designed Shahed drones, and offering them to allies would significantly help protect critical infrastructure.
The political leadership in Kyiv has been open about its engagement in the region. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukrainian specialists joined international consultations regarding the future of the Strait of Hormuz. Concurrently, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine’s unparalleled combat experience in breaking the Russian naval blockade in the Black Sea could serve as a decisive asset in defending freedom of navigation.
Military analysts note that deploying these ships alongside NATO forces would provide Ukrainian crews with invaluable real-world experience. Operating in high-threat environments will allow sailors to obtain necessary certifications and master NATO standards. Once the time comes to demine the Black and Azov Seas, this expertise will be critical for ensuring the swift recovery of Ukraine’s maritime economy.