Delivery of the 'Henichesk' Mine Countermeasures Vessel
The Netherlands will transfer the Alkmaar-class minehunter Zr.Ms. Makkum to Ukraine in June, where it will be renamed the 'Henichesk'. This vessel honors a Ukrainian ship lost in 2022 and will become the fifth minehunter Ukraine has received from its international partners as military aid. This delivery is part of a broader effort to bolster Ukraine's naval capabilities in the Black Sea region.
Key Specifications and Functions
Designed for safeguarding sea lanes, coastal waters, and harbor entrances from naval mines, the Alkmaar-class minehunter is equipped with remotely operated SeaFox submersibles for enhanced mine clearance. The 'Henichesk' features a hull constructed from non-magnetic materials, including a polyester-based glass-reinforced plastic composite.
- Displacement: 543 tons
- Length: 51.5 meters
- Width: 8.9 meters
- Draft: 3.8 meters
- Maximum speed: 13 knots (24 km/h)
- Propulsion: Diesel engine with auxiliary thrusters
- Crew: 28-38 personnel
The 'Henichesk' will be the fifth such vessel provided to Ukraine, following previous transfers from the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. All five ships are currently based in the UK, and the new minehunter is slated to participate in the international Sea Breeze exercises in 2027.
Beyond primary mine-clearing duties, these versatile ships can also be deployed for:
- providing naval fire support for land operations
- clearing coastal areas ahead of amphibious assaults
- locating submerged hazards and containers that threaten shipping
In a related development, the European Union is prepared to grant the United Kingdom access to a €90 billion credit program aimed at supporting Ukraine. This initiative is designed to help Ukraine procure up to €60 billion worth of military equipment over the coming year.
The arrival of the 'Henichesk' underscores Ukraine's commitment to securing its maritime territory against persistent threats. Support from allies like the Netherlands demonstrates international solidarity with Ukraine's defense efforts. The vessel's planned participation in multinational exercises will further enhance the Ukrainian Navy's interoperability and readiness alongside its partners.