Ukraine's Zelenskyy Appoints New Air Force Deputy to Lead Anti-Drone Shield.

Pavlo Yelizarov's New Role

According to TSN.ua: On January 19, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the appointment of Pavlo Yelizarov as Deputy Commander of the Air Force. In this position, Yelizarov will be tasked with developing small-scale air defense systems and counter-drone operations, a critical priority given the evolving nature of aerial threats. This move underscores Ukraine's urgent need to adapt its defenses against Russia's extensive use of unmanned aerial vehicles.

Russia launched up to 100,000 Shahed and other types of drones against Ukraine in 2025. In response, Yelizarov's primary mission will be to construct an 'anti-drone dome' over the country, aiming to provide more effective protection from these persistent air attacks.

Pavlo Yelizarov's Military Record

Pavlo Yelizarov, also known by the call sign 'Lazar,' brings substantial military experience to the role. His unit, Lasar's group, has reportedly destroyed over $13 billion worth of enemy equipment during the conflict. The unit is credited with destroying one in every five Russian tanks, and in December alone, its fighters eliminated 364 artillery pieces and 12 multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS).

"In the army, he is known as Lazar, a special unit that works, and works effectively." - Volodymyr Zelenskyy

This statement highlights the high regard for Yelizarov's professionalism and his team's capabilities. Concurrently, as noted by officials, no other country in the world currently possesses as much practical experience in countering sustained aerial assaults as Ukraine does.

Yelizarov's appointment represents a significant step in strengthening Ukraine's air defense amid the ongoing threat from Russian forces. It signals the high priority placed on developing counter-drone and air defense capabilities, leveraging his proven tactical and strategic expertise to secure Ukrainian airspace more reliably. In the context of continuous military aggression, reinforcing these systems is a critical task for national security.