Ukraine has taken a new step to broaden its air-defense network by allowing critical-infrastructure companies to join the national air-defense system under military control, Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal announced on Wednesday.
Russian forces have increased strikes on energy sites, transport links, and communications hubs in recent months, repeating the pressure tactics used in previous winters. The pace and scale of these attacks have stretched air-defense resources and pushed the government to look for new ways to protect key facilities.
Companies form air-defense groups under Air Force command
The government has approved an experimental framework that lets operators in energy, communications, transport, water supply and other key sectors form air-defense groups that plug directly into the command structure of the Air Force.
Shmyhal said the move gives businesses a way to support national defense at a time when Russian missile and drone attacks continue to hit strategic sites across the country. He stressed that all units will work strictly under military orders and inside a unified command system.
Under the rules, group leaders will use the military’s digital command platform, while companies may buy or receive air-defense equipment through channels approved by the Defense Ministry. Only vetted employees - including those cleared by the Security Service of Ukraine - will be allowed to serve in these units.
Private resources fill air-defense gaps at strategic sites
The plan aims to boost protection around vital facilities and better distribute the workload of Ukraine’s air-defense forces. It also opens the door for companies with the right resources to help close gaps in coverage.
According to Shmyhal, the arrangement is designed to improve reaction times, strengthen defenses around high-priority targets, and bring state and private efforts into one system focused on keeping people safe.
