Codification of new models of unmanned aerial systems (UAS): The Ministry of Defence answers the most frequently asked questions from manufacturers

The development and production of new models of weapons and military equipment for the needs of the Ukrainian Defence Forces is currently a key priority. An analysis of the practice employed by weapons manufacturers regarding the applicable regulatory protocols for codifying new weapon models reveals the need to clarify certain procedural aspects further. Specialists from the Main Directorate of Support for the Lifecycle of Weapons and Military Equipment addressed manufacturers' most frequently asked questions regarding the codification of unmanned aerial systems. 

1. Which entities and ministries are responsible for the codification of UAVs? 

- Within the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, the codification of new models of weapons and military equipment falls under the responsibility of the Main Department for Life Cycle Support of Weapons and Military Equipment.

2. Which primary legal documents govern the codification of unmanned aerial vehicles in Ukraine? 

- Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 345, dated February 25, 2015, ‘On Approving the Procedure for Supplying Defense Goods During a Special Period, the Declaration of a State of Emergency, During Conducting Measures to Ensure National Security and Defense, During Repelling and Deterring of Armed Aggression, and During the Period of Anti-Terrorist Operations.’;

Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 763, dated July 21, 2023, ‘On the Implementation of a Pilot Project for the Production, Procurement, and Supply of Ammunition.’;

- Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 256, dated March 24, 2023, ‘On the Implementation of a Pilot Project for Defense Procurement of Domestically Manufactured Unmanned Systems, Electronic Warfare Assets, and Active Equipment for Countering Technical Intelligence.’;

- Order of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine No. 673, dated December 18, 2017, ‘On Approval of the Procedure for Codification of Supply Items.’;

And the Order of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine No. 354/nm, dated May 28, 2024, ‘On Approval of the Instruction for Organizing the Supply of Weapons, and Military and Special Equipment within the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine during Martial Law.’

3. What paperwork is required to register a UAV, and what are the requirements for the associated technical documentation?

- For the convenience of manufacturers in preparing the required document package for the codification of unmanned aerial systems, we have made available sample documents on the website of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine. In the ‘Innovative Projects’ section, there is an ‘ARSENAL’ banner. This section provides samples of the required documents for specific weapon nomenclatures. Please follow the link “Sample Documents for UAS Developers.” Download the templates archive and compile your documentation package using the examples provided.

4. How long does it take to process an application for the certification and registration of a UAV? 

- Provided that the package of technical documentation submitted by the manufacturer is complete and properly prepared, the codification of a new weapons or military equipment model, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), will be completed within 10 days.

5. Is any technical support or advisory assistance available to manufacturers during the codification process? 

- After a manufacturer submits an application through the  Window for Weapons and Military Equipment Manufacturers, a designated expert from the Main Directorate of Support for the Lifecycle of Weapons and Military Equipment (MDSLWME) is assigned to oversee their documentation. An expert can send information to a manufacturer (via email) about the current status of the application for codifying the weapon or military equipment model. 

Weapon and military equipment manufacturers are encouraged to contact the MDSLWME for guidance on codification matters by sending an email to [email protected]