Ukraine is expanding its experimental community-based air defense program, allowing local governments to directly fund territorial air defense units tasked with countering Russian aerial attacks, Ukraine's Ministry of Defense announced on 21 May.
The changes are part of a broader effort to strengthen Ukraine’s layered air defense network amid continued Russian drone and missile strikes across the country.
Under the updated framework approved by Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers, municipalities can now finance air defense groups operating within volunteer territorial community formations, known as DFTG units. Operational control, however, will remain under the Ukrainian Air Force.
Ukraine has increasingly relied on decentralized and lower-cost air defense solutions as Russia expands its use of Shahed-type drones and other aerial threats. Community-based air defense units are intended to strengthen protection for cities, infrastructure, and rear areas while easing pressure on conventional military air defense systems.
Local communities formally join air defense effort
According to the Defense Ministry, the new rules grant local government bodies full participant status in the experimental program alongside the Defense Ministry, Ministry of Digital Transformation, military administrations, and DFTG commanders.
The air defense groups operate on a territorial basis and are tasked with detecting, tracking, warning about, and intercepting aerial threats. Units may use interceptor drones or manned aircraft as part of their operations.
Despite expanded local funding, command authority remains centralized. The Defense Ministry stressed that operational planning and combat coordination will continue to be handled exclusively through the Ukrainian Air Force and relevant air defense command structures.
The updated resolution also establishes a mechanism for additional payments to air defense group members for confirmed interceptions or destruction of aerial targets.
Program expanded after earlier phase
The decentralized air defense program was first launched in June 2025 following a decision by President Zelenskyy’s Office and developed jointly by the Defense Ministry and Ministry of Digital Transformation.
The government previously expanded the program in March 2026 by broadening eligibility criteria for creating new air defense groups and adjusting staffing requirements.
