Ukraine has launched an experimental project involving the private sector in air defense. The first business-run units are already intercepting enemy drones.
As Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said, one participating company has formed its own air defense unit, which has already destroyed several drones in the Kharkiv region, including Shahed and Zala.
According to him, 13 more companies have been authorized and are forming their own air defense units. They are at different stages of readiness — from training to active combat operations.
These private units are integrated into the unified command system of the Air Force and operate under its coordination.
Fedorov noted that this approach allows Ukraine to quickly scale its air defense capabilities without putting additional strain on frontline units.
He added that the model brings together the state, the military, and business as a single system, while also creating a competitive air defense market where companies can develop their own capabilities and protect infrastructure.
The Defense Ministry emphasized that the goal is to build a multi-layered air defense system with maximum coverage and effective interception of aerial threats.