Minehunting Ships Remain Essential

Shock hardened ships for low-risk way to minefield prosecution

The Russian minehunter “Ivan Antonov” has joined the permanent force of the Russian Navy in the Mediterranean. This new generation of ships is equipped with modern systems for search and detection of minefields, together with surface and underwater autonomous mine-clearance vehicles. It is designed to detect and terminate all types of mines.

Russia joins Italy and Germany who have also determined to renew their minehunting ship force. The Italian Navy 2019-2034 Strategic Plan includes 12 minehunter ships – four ocean going and eight coastal. The Fast Oceanic Minehunter, with a displacement of 1,300-1,400 t and a length of 75-80 m, includes a hull in non-magnetic composite material and a small flight deck. The ship will be able to accommodate one USV (Unmanned Surface Vehicle) of large size, which will use a stern slide for launch, and two USV of medium size, plus six AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) and up to 30-40 counter-mining charges.

Shock hardened and acoustically quite Minehunter ships are the only low-risk way to prosecute minefields in all weather conditions. The idea that mines can be destroyed using low-cost weapons from craft of opportunity is surely putting men straight back into the minefield with no protection. An uncomfortable devil in the detail that is being lost in the race for the aspiration of autonomy in mine warfare.

German Navy acquiring new minehunters

Fast Oceanic Minehunter