US and Ukraine to launch NATO war games in Scottish waters

NATO war games are due to begin in Scottish waters today.

Exercise Sea Breeze is a defiant show of force to Vladimir Putin. The exercise, which is jointly led by the US and Ukraine, will provide nations with the opportunity to practise working together with their closest allies and partners.

Over the next two weeks, partner countries will refine tactics, techniques, and procedures.

The focus will be on mine countermeasures operations.

Most of the activity will take place in the vicinity of Arran, Campbeltown, and the Northern Minches between today and July 5.Five ships from Estonia, France, Germany, and Ukraine will be taking part, although personnel from Bulgaria, Estonia, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Japan, Poland, Romania, Sweden, Ukraine, US and the UK will also participate.

The two Ukrainian mine- hunters involved are former Royal Navy vessels, previously named Shoreham, and Grimsby, and were transferred to the Ukrainian navy last year.

Now named Cherkasy and Chernihiv they are currently stationed at HM Naval Base Portsmouth while their crews undergo training with Royal Navy instructors.

The ships have previously taken part in major Nato war games Exercise Joint Warrior 23.

Exercise Sea Breeze will further ensure the Ukrainian sailors have the skills and knowledge to operate their mine hunters.

The Ukrainian vessels will eventually work in the Black Sea, clearing mines from vital shipping lanes and safeguarding the food security of the country.

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