October 15, 2026
About 100 Ukrainian companies have joined Ukraine’s experimental private air defense project, with around 50 groups established and more than 60 aerial targets destroyed
Nearly 100 Ukrainian companies have joined an experimental project to involve private businesses in the country’s air defense system, with participating groups having destroyed more than 60 aerial targets as of October 14, 2026, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense reported.
The initiative allows companies, regardless of ownership structure, to establish their own air defense groups to help protect industrial facilities, critical infrastructure, and civilian personnel from russian aerial attacks.
The project involves companies from both the public and private sectors, including operators of critical infrastructure facilities. The Ministry of Defense has granted participating businesses the authority to conduct air defense activities and form dedicated units.
Around 50 private air defense groups have been established so far. However, only groups from six companies are currently performing combat missions, while the remaining units are undergoing training or completing preparations for deployment.
According to the ministry, the groups have destroyed more than 60 aerial targets, including russian unmanned aerial vehicles. Their primary means of engagement include interceptor drones and automated weapon turrets equipped with heavy machine guns.
The private units operate under the direction of the relevant Air Force commands and are integrated into Ukraine’s broader air defense system. Military commanders determine which targets the groups engage based on their available weapons and assigned tasks.
Companies and military representatives jointly determine each group’s area of operations, personnel, and equipment requirements. Participating businesses can purchase certain weapons at their own expense or request the temporary provision of weapons and ammunition from military stockpiles through the Air Force Command.
When i talk to Ukrainians they always ask me why America won’t send the weapons they saw on tv. Leaving me speechless and embarrassed. DEMS 26/28! 🇺🇦💝✌️
I hear you, Mike. I’m also ashamed for my country when I’m in Ukraine.