Colonel Oleksandr Dovhach Dies in Combat
On March 9, 2026, Colonel Oleksandr Dovhach, a Hero of Ukraine and commander of the 39th Tactical Aviation Brigade, was killed while carrying out a mission on the Eastern front. The tragedy occurred despite the enemy's significant air superiority and heavy use of air defense systems. Dovhach completed his assigned task, but it ultimately became his final mission. This loss underscores the intense dangers faced by Ukrainian pilots as they operate against a technologically advanced adversary.
Dovhach was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine in November 2025 for his contributions to national defense. Throughout his career, he flew hundreds of combat sorties and took part in major battles, including those for:
- the Kyiv region
- the Kharkiv region
- the Kherson region
- Snake Island
He was 52 years old at the time of his death.
Remembering the Man Behind the Uniform
Oleksandr was a graduate of Chernihiv School No. 29, where he completed the 11-B class in 1990. He later studied at the Chernihiv Higher Military Aviation School for Pilots. Former classmates recall his character fondly. Tetiana Kazimir, a classmate, noted that Oleksandr was always kind, tolerant, and had a strong sense of justice.
“He was the first to go into battle, took on the most dangerous tasks, and inspired his subordinates to act boldly and decisively.” – Ukrainian Air Force
According to Tetiana Kazimir, Oleksandr did not get into flight school on his first attempt but eventually succeeded. She also mentioned that the last class reunion took place in 2015, and Oleksandr always valued staying in touch with colleagues.
“I was afraid he wouldn’t answer... But then we talked on the phone. He was very worried about the subordinates he was training to fly.” – Tetiana Kazimir
Oleksandr Dovhach is survived by his wife Kateryna, two sons—19-year-old Oleksandr and 2-year-old Illia—and his parents Ivan Illich and Tamara Ivanivna, who live in Chernihiv. The family resided in the Zhytomyr region.
Every day at 9 a.m., Ukrainians honor all those whose lives have been taken by the Russian-Ukrainian war. Today, the nation mourns the loss of Colonel Oleksandr Dovhach, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. The circumstances surrounding his death are still being determined, but his courage and dedication to service will remain in the memory of the Ukrainian people.
This tragic event highlights the sacrifices Ukrainian servicemen and women continue to make in the fight for the country's independence. The death of Colonel Dovhach serves as another reminder of how critical it is to support those defending the state during wartime. Society continues to honor the memory of heroes who gave their lives for peace and security in Ukraine.
The sacrifice of Colonel Oleksandr Dovhach highlights the perilous conditions faced by Ukrainian military personnel. Similar to the recent loss of another brave soldier, who transitioned from combat roles to modern warfare tactics, Dovhach's story is a testament to the evolving nature of the conflict and the courage displayed by those on the front lines.