Ukraine is reportedly preparing to expand its naval role beyond the Black Sea, with minesweepers potentially joining an international mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz after U.S.-Iran hostilities ease. Four vessels based in Portsmouth—including Sandown- and Alkmaar-class ships—could support a U.K.-French effort to restore safe shipping. Volodymyr Zelensky has also signaled readiness to deploy maritime drones and counter-drone systems. The move highlights Kyiv’s attempt to project naval capabilities globally while reinforcing ties with Western allies in a critical global energy corridor.