The Ukrainian Navy Day is an opportunity to honor those who defend the country with dignity both on water and on land. Find out more about the history of the holiday and those who constantly demonstrate strength and professionalism, performing tasks in all conditions

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On July 2, Ukraine celebrates Navy Day. This holiday is celebrated on the first Sunday of July to pay tribute to the Ukrainian Navy for their courage and dedication to our country.

The Navy is an extremely important part of the Ukrainian army, which plays a key role in protecting the country from the enemy. Brave warriors defend Ukraine both at sea and on land. For the second year in a row, sailors have been celebrating their professional holiday in wartime, fighting against invaders who want both Ukrainian lands and seas.

We invite you to learn more about the Ukrainian Navy, its importance in the war against russia, and the history of this day.

The role of the Ukrainian Navy in the war against russia

The Navy is a part of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and its purpose is to protect state interests at sea and assist the Land Forces in coastal regions. Before the full-scale invasion, the Navy had 15,470 personnel. The number of servicemen currently serving is not disclosed.

The Navy operates in three areas: at sea, on land and in the air. At sea, there is a flotilla, divisions of ships, boats and vessels. The airspace is protected by airplanes, helicopters and UAVs, and the land by battalions and divisions of marines, coastal missile forces and artillery.

After russia's invasion, every Ukrainian realized the value of all the military who give their lives to protect Ukraine's sovereignty. The Navy performed many feats that stopped the enemy in the southern direction. As a reminder, the sailors prevented the russian amphibious assault in Odesa region. In addition, the Navy's anti-aircraft gunners are protecting the skies of Odesa region, saving tens of thousands of lives. Thanks to their skill and ability to fight, the cities of the south remain under the Ukrainian flag.

The most striking achievements of the Navy are the destruction of the flagship of the russian fleet, the cruiser "moscow" and the liberation of Zmeinyi Island.

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History of the holiday

For the first time in independent Ukraine, the Day of the Ukrainian Navy was celebrated on August 1, 1997. On that day, Ukrainian flags were raised on the ships of the Black Sea Fleet, which became part of the Ukrainian Navy.

Until 2005, there were no changes to the date of the celebration, but Viktor Yushchenko moved the holiday to the first Sunday in July. Later, Viktor Yanukovych adjusted the date of the celebration to coincide with the russian Navy Day.

The decision to establish a new memorable date was made by Petro Poroshenko in 2015, so as not to celebrate this day with the occupier.

Interesting facts about the Ukrainian Navy

The Ukrainian Navy has a lot to surprise Ukrainians with. For example, in 2011, the Navy demonstrated primacy among other units of the Armed Forces. The Ukrainian Navy was the first to join the EU Battlegroup, taking up combat duty as part of the HelBRoC tactical group. 

By the way, the Ukrainian Marine Corps is over a hundred years old. Its first regular units were founded in 1918 during the reign of Pavlo Skoropadsky.

Unfortunately, there are also sad facts. In 2014, when russia annexed Crimea, Ukraine lost about 85% of its ships and important naval bases.

Ukraine and Ukrainians have shown that they are stronger than the whole world thought. And this strength is personified by ordinary Ukrainians and the military. We will always remember those who gave their lives to bring victory closer. Learn more about Ukrainian heroes of today in our previous article.

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