From now on, critical infrastructure enterprises can join defense program - Shmyhal

From now on, critical infrastructure enterprises can join the state air defense system under the leadership of the military command. Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal has announced this on his Telegram channel, the Ukrainian News agency reports.

"For the first time, the state opens such an opportunity for them and supports their efforts. Pursuant to the decision of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff, the Cabinet of Ministers adopted an experimental procedure that allows enterprises to be involved in the formation of air defense groups," he said.

Shmyhal noted that critical infrastructure operators - enterprises that ensure the operation of energy, communications, transportation, water supply and other strategic sectors - can join the project in the first place. Participation in the project is also open to enterprises that have the necessary resources and comply with security requirements.

The main principles of work have been formulated:

air defense groups will operate exclusively under the commands of the military command within the unified management system of the Air Forces;

group leaders will work in the digital air defense management system;

enterprises will be able to purchase or receive air defense assets by decision of the military command or through supply procedures approved by the Ministry of Defense;

air defense groups will include verified employees of enterprises, in particular those who have passed the SBU inspection.

"This decision will make air defense more effective, protect strategically important facilities from threats, and unite the efforts of the state and business for the safety of people and communities," the minister said.

As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, in November, Shmyhal said that Air Defense Centers would be established in the Chernihiv, Poltava and Zaporizhzhia Regions, scaling up the successful experience of the Kharkiv Region.