Critical infrastructure companies will now be able to take part in Ukraine’s state air-defense system under the command of the military. Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the decision, noting that the state is opening this opportunity for the first time and will support participating enterprises.
In line with the decision of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff, the government has approved an experimental procedure that allows companies to form air-defense groups and integrate into the unified Air Force command-and-control system. The initiative is primarily aimed at operators of critical infrastructure — enterprises in the energy, communications, transport, water supply and other strategic sectors. Other companies with sufficient resources and proper security compliance may also join.
Under the new rules, air-defense groups will operate strictly under military command and within the digital air-defense management system. Enterprises will be able to purchase or receive air-defense equipment through procedures coordinated with the Ministry of Defense, while the groups themselves will consist of vetted employees, including those cleared by the Security Service of Ukraine.
According to Shmyhal, the decision will strengthen Ukraine’s overall air-defense capabilities, improve protection of strategic facilities and unite the efforts of the state and private sector to safeguard people and communities.