"The proposed sale will improve Ukraine’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing a modern, fast, short-range vessel. Ukraine will utilize the vessels to better defend its territorial waters and protect other maritime interests," Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in the statement.

The U.S. Navy is currently using the Mk VI patrol boat as part of the combatant craft fleet of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) to patrol shallow coastal areas beyond sheltered harbors and bays and into less sheltered open water for the purpose of protecting friendly, coalition forces and critical infrastructure by force.

Powered by twin diesel engines and water jets, the Mk VI is capable of speeds at full load in excess of 30 knots and a range of more than 600 nautical miles.

"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe," the agency said.

Maritime Business World