Irish troops start demining training for the Ukrainian military in Cyprus

11 May, 2023 Demining. Photo credits: State Transport Special Service Irish troops start training Ukrainian servicemen in Cyprus.

Lieut General Sean Clancy, Irish Defence Forces' Chief-of-Staff, reported this. According to him, Ukrainian servicemen have already started explosive ordnance disposal and demining training. "Irish troops are already in Cyprus delivering basic explosive ordnance disposal and demining training to Ukrainian forces," Clancy said.

Other Defence Forces personnel are coordinating the mission from Germany and Brussels, he said.

Ukrainian serviceman with metal detector manufactured by Vallon. Photo credits: ArmyInform

The training is part of EUMAM Ukraine, a training mission of the European Union for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, during which Ukrainian servicemen undergo training provided by the member states of the union as part of assistance in repelling Russian aggression. As part of the support, Ireland has committed to sending up to 30 Defense Force personnel to participate in training in areas such as munitions disposal and tactical medicine.

As previously reported, last year, the UK handed over 1000 Vallon metal detectors and 100 bomb de-arming kits to Ukraine. This equipment is necessary for demining to ensure that the liberated Ukrainian territories, including civilian houses and infrastructure, are safe. Vallon metal detectors can assist the military in detecting minefields and clearing travel routes.

They will also help in ensuring civilian infrastructure and homes are cleared of explosive objects, allowing people to safely return to their homes in the de-occupied areas.

Vallon metal detector of the UAF.

Photo credits: ArmyInform

In turn, explosive disposal kits are designed to neutralize the fuze from unexploded Russian bombs, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices.

This equipment is one of the latest in a wide range of equipment that the UK has transferred to Ukraine to support its fight against a full-scale invasion of Russia.