At the initiative of the Ministry of Defence, priorities for the development of underwater demining in Ukraine have been defined

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine held the ‘Depth of Security – 2025’ conference, during which a framework concept for the development of underwater demining in Ukraine was developed.

The decision establishes a basis for the systematic development of underwater demining in Ukraine, a critically important area aimed at ensuring the safety of water bodies, supporting economic recovery, and protecting the environment in the context of russia’s armed aggression.

Conference participants focused on developing a comprehensive system for clearing aquatic areas and coastal zones. Dedicated expert groups will operate in the following focus areas:

- regulatory framework and standardization;

- methodologies and operational procedures;

- assessment, verification, and certification;

- training of diver-sapper personnel;

- environmental protection and the handling of explosive hazards in aquatic environments. 

Key priorities for 2026 include:

- development of a national standard for the clearance of aquatic areas;

- establishing a certification methodology for underwater demining assets adapted to current operational realities;

- implementation of training programs using the facilities of the Ukrainian Training and Testing Complex (UTTC) to ensure systematic professional training and the establishment of a qualified personnel reserve;

- creating a registry of technical solutions applied in aquatic area clearance. 

Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing international partnerships. Among the priorities is the provision of expert and technical assistance to develop national capabilities and expand diver-sapper training programs involving international instructors.