The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has initiated the development of technical and functional requirements for tourniquets in accordance with contemporary NATO standards in providing battlefield first aid.

As a part of this undertaking, MoD’s Healthcare Department focused on establishing the requirements for tourniquets and occlusive chest seals, as well as methodologies for evaluating their compliance with international standards. MoD is closely collaborating with global partners, such as the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (CoTCCC), to achieve this objective.

The Ministry of Defense's Healthcare Department is exploring best practices of NATO member states and liaising with defense attaches at Ukrainian embassies to acquire insights into quality standards for hemostatic tourniquets. After reviewing the information gathered, the Ministry evaluated its abilities to establish technical and functional criteria for mechanical means designed to stop bleeding.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Defence has applied for a grant from the NATO Science and Technology Organization to establish a laboratory dedicated to testing and assessing tourniquets and first-aid equipment.

“Our top priority is to equip our military with modern and standardized medical supplies. We are dedicated to maximizing the effectiveness of battlefield first aid by adopting and enforcing the best international standards. Key to our strategy is the development of tourniquet requirements and certification according to NATO standards. Our dedication is not limited to a mere procedure; it involves ensuring that each warrior has the capabilities to safeguard lives in real-time on the battlefield,” stated Oksana Sukhorukova, the Head of the Healthcare Department of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.

The implementation of Order No. 436 “On Approval of the Scope of Pre-Medical Aid in Combat Operations and during Training of the Security Forces and Defence Forces in Tactical Environments” dated June 29, 2024 marked a significant milestone. In accordance with this Order, mastery of tourniquet usage is essential in all first-aid training programs.

The Ministry of Defence is also working together with the Main Directorate of Doctrine and Training of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to update the training programs for military personnel. Specifically, the Directorate recommended adjustments to the Basic Combat Training program to enhance the efficiency of first aid training for military personnel.