Russia to Guard Mariupol Port with Former Ukrainian Navy’s Armored Gunboats

Russia’s law enforcement sources revealed to state media that seized Ukrainian Navy armored gunboats may be used to guard the ports of Berdyansk and Mariupol after repairs.

"There are several armored boats, captured by Russian seamen as trophies. Their fate is being decided now. One of options is to use them to guard the ports of Berdyansk and Mariupol when their technical condition is restored," the sources told government-owned TASS.

According to the sources, it is yet unknown whether the vessels will continue their service with maritime units of the Russian border guards or with the Black Sea Fleet.

Currently, work is under way to ensure their operative compatibility, they said.

Before the start of the Russian special military operation in Ukraine, the Ukrainian Navy had about 25 warships in service including 5 patrol boats and 6 gunboats, as well as the Svatove small landing craft and the Gola Pristan anti-sabotage boat. It also has up to 9 Gyurza/Gyurza-M armored gunboats.