The US is helping Ukraine strengthen its navy to counter Russia.

(Baonghean.vn) - “Ukraine will modernize and expand its naval fleet, including repairing the flagship and destroyer “Hetman Sahaydachnyy” to counter the Russian military forces being established in Crimea,” said the Ukrainian Navy Commander.

Vice Admiral Ihor Voronchenko, Commander of the Ukrainian Navy, affirmed that the country's naval forces are being strengthened (Photo: Reuters).

The upgrade will be supported by the US with approximately $30 million. This is part of a $500 million aid package from Washington for the Ukrainian military, which the Kyiv government hopes to receive in full next year.

"Step by step, we will rebuild and strengthen our fleet," Vice Admiral Ihor Voronchenko, Commander of the Ukrainian Navy, told Reuters in an interview. Ihor also asserted, "Our capabilities and quality will be better than what we have in Crimea."

Ukraine has lost two-thirds of its naval fleet since Crimea's annexation by Russia in 2014. According to Reuters, Russia is carrying out a militarization program in Crimea, including reviving former Soviet-built facilities, constructing new ones, and stationing troops there.

When Russia annexed Crimea, Ukraine decommissioned the destroyer "Hetman Sahaydachnyy," the landing ships "Yuriy Olifirenko," and the missile boat "Pryluky," while several gunboats fell into Russian hands.

“We are beginning repairs on the admiral ships,” Voronchenko said. “Two new gunboats are almost ready for service, and I’m sure Ukraine will receive four more by next July,” he added.

The Ukrainian Navy is also planning to purchase a new Corvette warship and a new missile boat in 2020.

Other steps Ukraine is taking to bolster its defenses include upgrading naval training and building new coastal defense units. Part of this training will be conducted in NATO member countries such as Italy, France, and the United Kingdom.

Vice Admiral Voronchenko stated that Russia is planning to turn Crimea into a "military base" with the deployment of three submarines, new destroyers, and other facilities. He also said that Ukraine has received this information and is closely monitoring the situation.

Khang Duy

(According to Reuters)