Ex-Royal Navy vessels transferred to Ukraine dock at Portsmouth naval base

Two former Royal Navy vessels turned Ukrainian minehunters have docked in Portsmouth for the first time since the beginning of the conflict with Russia.

The warships, known as Cherkasy and Chernihiv, were decommissioned last year and transferrred to Ukraine as the country continues to fight against Russia's invasion.

Before decommissioning, the vessels were known as HMS Shoreham and HMS Grimsby, but today they are two of Ukraine's first minesweepers.

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Commodore Paul Pitcher, Commander Surface Flotilla, said: "They are fully operational and capable now, ready to continue to hone their skills.

"We understand there are probably about 1,000 mines; Russian mines in the Black Sea laid over an area of about 800 square kilometres.

"So the role of these vessels as post-conflict capability, to clear those mines and secure those lines of communication for maritime trade.

"We're in the long haul whatever it takes, and who knows when they'll be making their return to the Black Sea."

The two former Sandown-class Mine Counter Measures Vessels (MCMVs) sailed down to HMNB Portsmouth from where they were previously based in Scotland to prepare for their first operational exercise, Sea Breeze 24, a joint countermeasure exercise between the Royal Navy, US Navy and Ukrainian navy.

Their arrival marks a significant step in the UK's support for the Ukrainian navy in terms of transformation and modernisation.

However, Turkey is currently blocking access to the Black Sea, which means the minehunters will continue training in UK waters.

"The UK is leading the way in helping Ukraine to modernise its navy," said Defence Secretary Grant Shapps.

"The transfer of these ships and the excellent training provided by the Royal Navy will have a real long-term impact on Ukraine's ability to defend its waters.

"We continue to support Ukraine as they deliver major blows to Putin's Black Sea Fleet.

"In doing so, they are securing vital corridors to export grain and other materials, supporting their economy in the face of Russia's barbaric bombardment."