UK alongside Norway to supply Ukraine with two Sandown Class Minehunters.

In a landmark development, the UK is set to lead a new Maritime Capability Coalition in collaboration with Norway. The British Ministry of Defense, in its statement dated December 11, 2023, announced this strategic alliance. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed the transfer of two Royal Navy Sandown Class minehunter ships to the Ukrainian Navy, marking a significant step in strengthening Ukraine’s maritime capabilities.
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Pictured is HMS Shoreham (M112) Sandown-class minehunter off the coast of Bahrain whilst deployed on Op KIPION. (Picture source UK MoD )

This transfer includes two Sandown Class mine countermeasures vessels (MCMV), which are expected to play a critical role in enhancing the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s (AFU) ability to operate at sea. The procurement of these ships by Ukraine facilitated through UK Export Finance, will be officially announced by Shapps today in London. His Norwegian counterpart will join him in this pivotal event, where they will also jointly launch the Maritime Capability Coalition.

This coalition aims to provide long-term support to Ukraine, helping to transform its navy. The focus will be on making it more compatible with Western allies and interoperable with NATO, thereby bolstering security in the Black Sea region. This initiative is a response to Ukraine’s ongoing struggle with Putin’s blockade in the Black Sea, which has significantly hampered the country's ability to transport vital exports via maritime routes. Enhancing the AFU’s capacity, especially in countering Russian sea mines, is seen as crucial to restoring Ukraine’s maritime export capabilities.

This move builds upon the UK Foreign Secretary’s visit to Ukraine last month. During this visit, the launch of the ‘Unity Facility’ was celebrated. This is a collaboration between UK company Marsh McLennan and the Ukrainian Government, aiming to provide affordable shipping insurance for grain and other critical food supplies globally from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports. It's a strategic step to support international efforts in alleviating the global food crisis.

The formation of the Maritime Capability Coalition and the transfer of minehunter ships underscore the UK and Norway's commitment to supporting Ukraine. This collaborative defense initiative is expected to have significant implications for the security dynamics in the Black Sea region and beyond.

The Sandown Class minehunters, employed by the Royal Navy, are specialized naval vessels designed for the detection and neutralization of mines in marine environments. These ships are renowned for their fiberglass hulls, which significantly reduce their magnetic signature, a crucial feature that minimizes the risk of detonating magnetic mines. Typically measuring around 52.5 meters in length and displacing approximately 600 tonnes, these vessels are relatively small, enhancing their maneuverability in confined waters, a vital attribute for mine-clearing operations. They are equipped with powerful sonar systems, specifically the Type 2093 Variable Depth Sonar, which is adept at detecting mines and other underwater objects. This sonar system can be lowered beneath the sea to get a clearer picture of the seabed, essential for identifying mines.

The Sandown Class also boasts advanced mine disposal systems, including the Seafox mine disposal system, a remotely operated underwater vehicle that can safely neutralize mines. This capability ensures that the ship and its crew remain at a safe distance during mine clearance operations. Additionally, these minehunters are armed with a 30mm DS30M Mark 2 Automated Small Calibre Gun and two 7.62mm General Purpose Machine Guns for self-defense. Powered by diesel engines, they can reach speeds of up to 13 knots and have a range of approximately 2,500 nautical miles, allowing for extended operations. The ships also accommodate a crew of around 34 personnel, providing a balance of automation and human expertise essential for mine warfare. Overall, the Sandown Class minehunters are compact yet highly effective vessels, specifically tailored for the critical task of ensuring safe maritime passages by clearing naval mines.