Local authorities will be able to provide direct funding to civil defence groups within the Territorial Defence Forces
This was reported by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence.
What the government’s decision changes
Ukraine is expanding a pilot project to strengthen air defence.
From now on, local authorities will be able to directly fund air defence units within the volunteer formations of local communities.
Operational command of such units will remain with the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
On the initiative of the Ministry of Defence, the Cabinet of Ministers has amended the Procedure for implementing the pilot project to strengthen air defence by involving air defence groups.
This refers to Resolution No. 699 of 11 June 2025.
How communities will be involved in air defence
Air defence groups are units of volunteer formations within local communities, operating on a territorial basis.
They are responsible for detecting, monitoring, alerting and neutralising air threats.
This refers to threats involving the use of attack UAVs or manned aircraft.
The changes grant local authorities the status of full participants in the project.
They join the project alongside the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Digital Transformation, military administrations and commanders of the Territorial Defence Forces.
Reward for targets hit
The resolution also regulates the mechanism for paying additional remuneration to air defence unit personnel.
The basis for such payment will be the confirmed fact of hitting or destroying an aerial target.
Who will command the air defence groups
Command of the air defence groups remains the exclusive responsibility of the military command.
Operational planning and command of the units’ actions will be carried out by the Ukrainian Air Force through the relevant air defence command bodies.
While carrying out their tasks, unit members will act in accordance with the regulations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
What is known about the pilot project
The pilot project to integrate air defence groups into the Joint Task Force has been in operation since June 2025.
It was developed by the Ministry of Defence in conjunction with the Ministry of Digital Transformation in accordance with a decision by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Headquarters.
In March 2026, the Cabinet of Ministers had already expanded the range of entities authorised to initiate the formation of air defence groups.
At the same time, the government clarified the personnel criteria for their recruitment.
Follow us on Telegram
