Ukrainian Marines to Receive Small Boat Training in Norway

15 February, 2024 Ukrainian marines during training. Photo credits: British Royal Navy press service This spring, the Norwegian military will begin training Ukrainian marines to operate small boats.

The Ministry of Defense of Norway announced this. The training is a first step in the maritime coalition work that Norway is coordinating with the UK. The new coalition of countries will supply ships and other vehicles to strengthen Ukraine's ability to operate at sea.

The Maritime Coalition will work closely with the Ukrainian Navy and the Ministry of Defense to provide long-term support to Ukraine, including training, equipment, and infrastructure to strengthen security in the Black Sea.

Ukrainian marines during training. Photo credits: British Royal Navy press service

The initiative will also help Ukraine develop its marines and acquire river patrol vessels to protect coastal and inland waterways. "We have to make our contribution where we can make a difference, where Norway can provide much-needed expertise, which is the best in the world.

Norway has established good relations with the Ukrainian Marines through training in Norway, and we are now developing this cooperation and creating a special training program," said Norwegian Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram. The training will last about a year and will begin in the Netherlands in cooperation with allied countries. In addition, Norway will donate rubber boats and equipment to a value of approximately NOK 60 million.

Ukrainian marines during training.

Photo credits: British Royal Navy press service

"The purpose of the coalition is to build on the work that allies and partners are doing to support Ukraine, both in the short and long term. The UK, Norway and other countries will now help Ukraine build sustainable maritime capabilities. This is a long-term project, and support will require a lot of work over many years," says Gram.

The Norwegian Minister of Defense added that the country is committed to strengthening its maritime defense and improving Ukraine's ability to operate along its own coastline.

Ukrainian marines have already learned to conduct amphibious operations using small boats in the UK.

The programme helped the soldiers acquire life and survival skills in field, battlefield first aid, as well as close quarters combat.