The US Navy has confirmed its plans to decommission the newest patrol boats of the Mark VI project, the oldest of which was purchased by the military six years ago, The Drive reports, citing a budget request for 2022.
According to this document, the Pentagon does not intend to replace the Mark VI directly. The tasks assigned to the Mark VI are proposed to be transferred to other ships of the US Navy and Coast Guard. Budget savings as a result of the write-off of these boats, which are planned, in particular, to be sold, will amount to $ 74 million.
In February, The Drive cited a comment by USMC Marine Corps Major General Tracy King, according to which the Mark VI is useless against opponents such as China and Russia, and is also too expensive to maintain.
In July last year, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the US authorities had approved the supply of up to 16 Mark VI combat patrol boats and related equipment to Ukraine. According to him, six boats are being prepared for Kiev as part of "assistance under the relevant programs." Ukraine will be able to purchase the remaining ships for money from the defense budget.
Ivan Potapov
