Almost 100 companies have joined private civil defence force, - Ministry of Defence
Almost 100 companies have joined the pilot project aimed at integrating businesses, regardless of their form of ownership, into Ukraine’s air defence system.
This was reported by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence, according to Censor.NET.
As noted, these organisations have been authorised to carry out air defence measures and to form air defence units. They include operators of critical infrastructure facilities, as well as organisations in the public and private sectors.
The project is being implemented in accordance with Resolution No. 1506 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine of 19 November 2025 and involves utilising corporate resources to strengthen the defence of Ukraine’s territory against airborne threats.
A private air defence unit has already shot down more than 60 aerial targets
It is reported that air defence units from six enterprises are currently engaged in combat operations. In total, around 50 air defence units have been formed, operating under the command of the relevant air commands of the Ukrainian Air Force.
As of 14 October 2026, these units had destroyed more than 60 aerial targets, including enemy unmanned aerial vehicles. Their main weapons are interceptor drones and automated turret systems fitted with large-calibre machine guns.
The Ministry of Defence noted that the air defence units of private companies are at various stages of training: some are carrying out combat missions, some are undergoing training, and others are completing their training and are only just joining the air defence reinforcements.
Integration into Ukraine’s air defence system
Private air defence forms part of a multi-layered air defence system.
Involving the private sector in air defence is an initiative by the Ministry of Defence designed to strengthen the protection of industrial facilities, critical infrastructure and civilian personnel against systematic attacks by enemy drones.
The operations of private air defence groups are determined by the Air Force Air Command responsible for the area in which the group operates. The company and the military jointly determine the area of operation, personnel and the necessary resources.
The company purchases certain types of weaponry at its own expense, as it has the status of an end-user. It may also approach the Air Force Command with a request to temporarily provide weapons and ammunition from the depots of military units.
Enemy targets for the units are designated by the Air Command, taking into account the available weaponry and the tasks assigned.
What led up to it
As a reminder, private air defence units began combat operations in 2026. This decision allows air defence capabilities to be scaled up rapidly without placing an additional burden on frontline units.
