Ships of the Ukrainian Navy

Discover the Ukrainian Navy's History

Explore the history of the Ukrainian Navy from 1917-1918 through paintings, film, and unique 3D images that celebrate our maritime heritage.

On April 29, 1918, the Black Sea Fleet raised the Ukrainian flag by order of its commander, marking the result of a long struggle by Ukrainian sailors and officers.

In 1917, it was the most powerful naval force in the Black Sea, with the Russian Empire viewing it as key to controlling the Bosphorus and Dardanelles. Its core included three battleships: ‘Empress Maria’, ‘Empress Catherine the Great’, and ‘Emperor Alexander III’ (renamed ‘Volya’ in 1917).