Greeting from the Commandant of the National Defence University of Ukraine on the Day of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Dear service members, veterans and civilian personnel of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine,

Please accept my sincere congratulations on your professional holiday!

Today, the Air Force is the shield of Ukraine’s skies. Behind this shield lie the safety of our cities and villages, the uninterrupted operation of critical infrastructure and the lives of millions of Ukrainians.

This shield is upheld by pilots, air defence personnel, radar troops specialists, unmanned systems operators, engineers, technicians and everyone who defends Ukraine’s skies day and night.

Since the first moments of the full-scale invasion, you have defended one of the most critical fronts of this war. Behind every peaceful morning in Ukrainian cities stands your tireless work through the night. Every repelled air attack, every destroyed missile or enemy drone, and every successful combat sortie means lives saved, homes preserved and another step towards Ukraine’s Victory.

We bow our heads in memory of the warriors who gave their lives defending Ukraine’s skies. Their courage and fidelity to the military oath will forever remain an example of honour, self-sacrifice and boundless devotion to Ukraine.

The National Defence University of Ukraine is proud of its graduates who are strengthening the combat capabilities of the Air Force today. We will continue to educate and train officers capable of operating effectively in modern warfare, applying combat experience, mastering cutting-edge technologies and strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities.

I thank each and every one of you for your service, resilience and professionalism! I wish you good health, endurance, sound decisions, the steadfast support of your comrades-in-arms, success in accomplishing your combat missions and God’s protection.

Glory to the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine!
Glory to Ukraine!

Commandant of the National Defence University of Ukraine
Colonel General Mykhailo KOVAL