Minesweepers “Cherkasy” and “Chernihiv” completed NATO level one assessment

The ships of the Ukrainian Navy were the first since the start of the full-scale invasion to receive an interoperability assessment according to NATO standards.

This was reported by the Ukrainian Navy.

The mine countermeasure ships “Cherkasy” and “Chernihiv” were the first since the start of the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation to complete the NATO Level 1 assessment, which confirms interoperability with NATO procedures and standards.

Ahead of the ship crews are waiting for the NATO Level 2 assessment (NEL2), after which they will gain the right to participate in multinational operations and missions of the Alliance.

“In modern security conditions, this is an important process of integrating Ukrainian units into NATO standards, which ensures a high level of training and efficiency. One of the main mechanisms of such partnership is the NATO Operational Capability Concept Review and Feedback Program. Its main task is to practically assess the level of readiness of the armed forces of partner countries for joint participation with NATO military formations in Alliance operations,” the report says.

Recall that in February 2025, the exercises of the Ukrainian minesweepers “Chernihiv” and “Cherkasy” were shown in Britain.

Reference. “Cherkasy” and “Chernihiv” are Sandown-class mine-clearing ships that the United Kingdom transferred to Ukraine in 2022.