Strengthening air defense: Critical infrastructure enterprises join the National Air Defence System under military command
On the initiative of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, the Cabinet of Ministers has adopted a decision that opens a new format of defense cooperation: enterprises will cooperate with the Armed Forces of Ukraine to form air-defense groups that will reinforce the state and critical infrastructure.
The key objective is to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure.
The document is part of a comprehensive plan to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense system — a mechanism that reinforces the country’s air shield and enhances the security of strategic facilities.
“For the first time, the state is enabling enterprises to engage in the protection of critical infrastructure and is supporting their efforts,” emphasized Ukrainian Minister of Defence Denys Shmyhal.
What has been introduced:
- Unified command. Air Defense Groups operate exclusively under military command within the Air Force’s unified command-and-control system.
- Coordination. Group leaders operate within the digital Air Defense command-and-control system, which enables rapid coordination and shared situational awareness of the airspace.
- Access to assets. Enterprises will be able to procure or receive air defense assets based on decisions of the military command or through MoD-approved supply procedures. This enables rapid deployment of localized air defense capabilities around critical facilities.
- Safety above all else. Air Defense Groups are composed of vetted enterprise employees who hold valid medical clearances, have no criminal record, and have passed the Security Service of Ukraine screening.
The decision is being implemented without additional funding from the state budget.
Why this matters for national security
More sensors, more systems, and more personnel at critical points. Enterprises whose facilities may be targeted now have a legal and coordinated mechanism for additional protection.
A faster response — groups positioned closer to potential threats can engage targets much sooner after detection.
Who can join
Participation is open, first and foremost, to critical infrastructure operators — enterprises that ensure the functioning of the energy, communications, transportation, water supply, and other strategic sectors.
The project is also open to enterprises that possess the necessary resources and meet security requirements, particularly those that meet at least one of the following criteria:
- conduct security activities in accordance with established procedures;
- possess a permit for handling explosive materials;
- have been granted authorization to manufacture ammunition and explosives.
All participants undergo training under Air Force programs and operate under military command.
How it works
- The enterprise submits an application with information about itself, its resources, and the composition of the prospective group.
- The Ministry of Defence verifies compliance with security requirements and issues a permit to establish the group.
- Once approved, the enterprise operates within the Air Force command-and-control system — receiving tasks, coordinating its actions, and reporting results.