In June, Ukraine is set to receive a minehunter vessel from the Netherlands, designated Zr.Ms. Makkum, which will be renamed ‘Henichesk’ in honor of a ship lost in June 2022. This acquisition is part of Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to enhance its naval capabilities amidst ongoing conflicts.
The Alkmaar-class minehunters are primarily tasked with ensuring maritime security, protecting coastal waters, and safeguarding harbor entrances from sea mines. They also play a crucial role in supporting ground operations by clearing coastal areas prior to amphibious assaults.
Additionally, these vessels can be employed in search operations for sunken ships and lost containers that pose threats to navigation.
Specifications of the Alkmaar-class Minehunter
The Alkmaar-class minehunters possess the following specifications:
- Crew: 28–38 personnel;
- Displacement: 543 tons;
- Length: 51.5 meters;
- Width: 8.9 meters;
- Draft: 3.8 meters;
- Maximum speed: 13 knots (24 km/h).
The vessel is equipped with a diesel engine for long-distance travel, complemented by auxiliary propulsion systems that facilitate precise maneuvering during mine clearance operations.
Mine Detection Capabilities
Equipped with a hull-mounted sonar system, these ships are designed to detect underwater objects, including mines. In challenging hydrological conditions, they utilize remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) and towed or variable-depth surveillance systems to refine the identification of detected objects.
Mine Neutralization Methods
Alkmaar-class ships are armed with light weaponry, including heavy machine guns for self-defense. Their primary means of mine neutralization involve ROVs, such as the SeaFox, which can identify underwater threats and, if necessary, destroy them using explosive charges delivered directly to the target. Divers may also be deployed for specialized demolition tasks.
Notably, the hulls of these vessels are constructed from non-magnetic materials, specifically polyester-based fiberglass, which minimizes the risk of triggering mines equipped with magnetic detonators. The superstructure is made from lightweight alloys. This design choice is standard for minehunters, as steel hulls can create magnetic fields that may activate explosive devices.
The ‘Henichesk’ will be the fifth vessel received by Ukraine, following four others provided by the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. It is expected to participate in the Sea Breeze exercises in 2027. Currently, all five vessels are stationed in the United Kingdom, and once the conflict concludes, they will contribute to demining efforts, significantly enhancing the capabilities of the Ukrainian Navy.
Ukraine's acquisition of the Alkmaar-class minehunter 'Henichesk' from the Netherlands marks a significant enhancement of its naval capabilities. This vessel will play a crucial role in maritime security and demining operations following the ongoing conflict.