Ukraine’s Sea Ports Authority (USPA) is moving forward with a major fleet modernization effort, supported by financing from the World Bank. The initiative focuses on renewing aging equipment at the Port of Izmail on the Danube River.
According to USPA, a significant share of its operating budget – up to 30% – is currently consumed by maintenance of outdated vessels, many of which date back to the 1970s and 1980s. The modernization program aims to cut these costs and improve operational efficiency by introducing multifunctional vessels capable of meeting modern safety and environmental standards.
A tender launched earlier this year seeks a new multipurpose port vessel for Izmail. The ship will be equipped for oil spill response, firefighting, towing, rescue, and ice operations. The authority is now evaluating proposals, with the winning bidder expected to be announced soon. Delivery of the vessel is planned for 2026.
USPA emphasized that the World Bank–backed program is part of a broader effort to strengthen logistics resilience and promote environmentally responsible operations across the Danube network.
Ukraine to upgrade Izmail port fleet with World Bank support
