New underground hospital 'saving lives' in Ukraine

Ukraine has built its first steel, underground frontline hospital in a bid to provide “critical” first aid to severely wounded soldiers.

- TOM WATLING

The complex, which comprises two full-scale operating theatres and six enlarged steel bunkers, is capable of housing around 100 soldiers. The Ministry of Defence said the hospital is capable of both stabilising the wounded and performing up to four surgeries simultaneously.

It has been supplied with alternative power sources, ventilation and water supply, allowing it to operate without additional support if the area comes under threat.

While its steel reinforcements will provide protection against Russian artillery, it is also equipped with electronic warfare technology intended to further reduce the threat of Russian aerial attacks.

During the installation of the underground hospital, additional security measures were taken to protect against exposure of its location and potential enemy attacks on the facility. It is believed that the hospital is located in eastern Ukraine.