The Ministry of Defense is actively working on creating military symbolism. It is not just a symbolic design for the unit, but also an important tool in shaping identity and supporting the fighting spirit in the event of a potential conflict.
According to a representative of the Ministry of Defense, a specialized department of the Central Department for the Development of Material Support is responsible for the development of military symbolism.
'This department creates key elements of the military units' symbolism, particularly their shoulder insignia. These are modern unique images of Ukrainian servicemen that combine historical traditions, regional features, and the tasks of the units,' explained Colonel Maksym Kayola, head of the Central Department for the Development of Material Support.
Approval of the new shoulder insignia is a complex process that involves expert evaluation from leading historians and artists, followed by final approval from the Minister of Defense or the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Currently, there are already 110 unique shoulder insignia that have been approved until 2025.
Examples of Military Symbolism
- 153rd Separate Mechanized Brigade
- 155th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after Anna of Kyiv
- 19th Army Corps
In modern conditions, military symbolism has become an important element of the state's informational, ideological, and moral defense.
By using the symbolism of military units, Ukraine combines ancient traditions with a modern perspective on defending the country, which contributes to the formation of national identity and is an important element of supporting national fighting spirit in the context of global threats.