Ukraine to Deploy Two Minesweepers for International Strait of Hormuz Mission

Ukrainian Navy Prepared for International Deployment

According to ХВИЛЯ: The Ukrainian Navy has confirmed its readiness to join an international mine-clearing operation in the Strait of Hormuz, committing at least two dedicated minesweepers to the mission. The crews of these vessels have completed specialized training and have been externally evaluated for compliance with NATO standards, qualifying them for operations within a multinational force. This deployment highlights Ukraine's growing role in global maritime security efforts beyond its own region.

According to Ukrainian Navy spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk in an exclusive statement to ArmyInform on April 22, 2026, the Ukrainian minesweepers are prepared to participate in a mission led by the United Kingdom and France. The vessels are currently stationed in Portsmouth harbor, ready to commence their mine-clearing tasks.

Operation's Objectives and Tasks

The operation's primary goal is to restore safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which was disrupted due to hostilities in Iran. The specific duties assigned to the Ukrainian ships will include:

• Detection
• Identification
• Neutralization of mines and mine-like objects using remotely operated drones

Ukraine's dedicated mine-countermeasures division was established in the United Kingdom and its ships are outfitted with modern equipment, enabling them to perform these duties effectively.

On Wednesday, April 22, Ukrainian naval officers will participate in a multinational military planning summit at the Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood, UK. Military representatives from over 30 countries will attend this meeting, underscoring broad international support for restoring safe shipping in the region.

Furthermore, Ukrainian sailors consistently demonstrate a high level of proficiency during annual international exercises like Sea Breeze, which focus on mine clearance operations. The Ukrainian Navy is already engaged in active mine-clearing operations under combat conditions in the Black Sea. By June 2026, the Ukrainian fleet will operate a total of five minesweepers, provided by the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Belgium. All vessels are currently based in the UK and are slated to participate in clearing the Black Sea of mines once the war concludes.

Ukraine's participation in this international Strait of Hormuz mission underscores its expanding contribution to global security initiatives, particularly amidst instability in the Middle East. Collaboration with NATO members like the UK and France not only enhances Ukraine's military capabilities but also signals international solidarity in safeguarding crucial maritime routes. This engagement may also pave the way for further development and modernization of the Ukrainian naval fleet.

As the Ukrainian Navy prepares for this vital mission, it is essential to understand the broader context of their involvement in international maritime security. For a deeper look at how Ukrainian minesweepers are positioned in Portsmouth and their potential role in clearing the Strait of Hormuz, read more about the details of the mission here.