Ukrainian Navy Gains New Mine Countermeasures Brigade Under Presidential Decree

New Mine Countermeasures Unit Established

According to Главком: On July 4, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed Decree No. 585, officially establishing a mine countermeasures brigade within the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This move aims to safeguard national interests, counter Russian aggression, address security threats in the Black Sea, neutralize mine hazards to maritime traffic, and enhance the Navy's mine-clearing capabilities. The decision reflects Ukraine's ongoing efforts to strengthen its naval defenses amid the prolonged conflict with Russia.

The Cabinet of Ministers has been instructed to promptly resolve organizational matters related to the brigade's formation, while the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff received specific directives to implement the initiative.

Naval Academy Founded in Odesa

Separately, the President signed Decree No. 583/2026 to create a Naval Academy in Odesa, further bolstering Ukraine's maritime security capabilities. Notably, Ukraine celebrates Navy Day annually on the first Sunday of July, which falls on July 5 in 2026. Ahead of these events, Zelenskyy visited the Odesa region for a working trip, holding a security briefing with the Naval Forces command.

The establishment of both the mine countermeasures brigade and the Naval Academy marks significant steps in strengthening Ukraine's military posture amid the heightened security situation in the Black Sea. These initiatives underscore the state's focus on ensuring maritime security and protecting national interests, especially given the ongoing aggression from the Russian Federation.

The observance of Navy Day also highlights the critical role of naval forces in the country's defense framework.

The recent establishment of the mine countermeasures brigade is part of a broader strategy to enhance Ukraine's naval capabilities. In a related development, the President also announced the formation of a new maritime training institution. For more details on these significant military initiatives, you can read about the new naval brigade and maritime academy introduced by Zelenskyy.