The dolphin program dates to the 1960s , when Russia and Ukraine were part of the Soviet Union , but was handed over to Kiev after independence . Russia plans to take custody of Ukraine 's combat dolphins , news agency reports . Dolphins are a crucial part of open-water security . They can be used for search and rescue missions or as an early warning system in the event that Russian forces try to seize control over Crimea from Kiev.
Russia plans to take custody of Ukraine 's combat dolphins , news agency reports . Dolphins are a crucial part of open-water security . They can be used for search and rescue missions or as an early warning system in the event that Russian forces try to seize control over Crimea from Kiev.