In today’s war conditions, technology and innovation are increasingly becoming key factors in successful combat operations. Therefore, the state is interested not only in providing the military with the necessary weapons and equipment, but also in encouraging the initiative and ingenuity of the soldiers themselves. It is for this purpose that a new mechanism of material incentives is being introduced—additional payments for the implementation of innovative solutions directly on the front lines. This approach is designed to support the creativity of military personnel who, through their own developments or technical improvements, are able to significantly strengthen the defense capabilities of units and contribute to the development of tactical superiority over the enemy.
What does the resolution say?
The Ministry of Defense notes that this is not only about the legal formalization of rights, but also about forming a culture of respect for intellectual property in the defense sector.
To create a modern and effective system for managing intellectual property rights, a specialized Intellectual Property Department was established within the Ministry of Defense.
The Ministry of Defense also initiated two bills, which have already been supported by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine in the first reading. These documents provide for amendments to the Civil Code of Ukraine regarding the distribution of intellectual property rights to objects created by military personnel and regulate legal relations related to the creation and use of intellectual property objects in the defense sector.
It is expected that the proposed changes will form the basis for building a comprehensive intellectual property management system in the defense department, in which promising developments created with state budget funds will belong to the state, and their authors will receive fair remuneration.
What to do for military personnel: where to go
If a military serviceman, while performing combat or special tasks, has developed a technical solution, device, software, tactical model, or other object that has practical value and characteristics of intellectual property, such an achievement is subject to legal protection in accordance with the current legislation of Ukraine. This applies, in particular, to copyright objects (e.g., computer programs, drawings, instruction texts), inventions or utility models (new technical solutions, devices, engineering solutions), rationalization proposals, or production secrets (know-how).
A military serviceman who is the author or co-author of such an innovation has the right to recognition of authorship, obtaining the relevant patent, copyright certificate, as well as material remuneration.
The law clearly states that if a work or invention is created while performing official duties in the Armed Forces of Ukraine or other military formations, the property rights may belong to the state, but the author retains personal non-property rights and the right to fair remuneration.
In such a situation, it is important not to lose control over your own intellectual property and to take timely measures to protect it legally. First of all, the author should record a description of the innovation in writing (with drawings, photos, a description of functions, or a video demonstration), indicate the date of creation, specify the conditions 
under which the development was created, and who else was involved. Then, you need to consult with intellectual property specialists who will examine the object and help determine its legal nature: whether it is subject to protection as an invention, copyrighted work, or know-how. If the innovation has the characteristics of a technical solution, the specialists will prepare a patent application to the National Intellectual Property Authority (UKRNOIVI).
In addition to copyright, patents, etc., military personnel who create innovative products can also protect their achievements by registering a trademark (TM). If an innovation, development, or system has a unique name, logo, chevron, slogan, or other designation that distinguishes it from others and is associated with the author or unit, this designation can be registered as a TM. This legal tool allows you to protect not only the product itself, but also its visual or verbal identity, prohibit third parties from using similar names, copying symbols, or misleading consumers.
For example, if the military develops a series of drones, programs, communication systems, or even tactical equipment under its own brand, trademark registration allows it to maintain control over the name, labeling, and reputation of the product. This is especially important when commercializing the development or transferring it for scaling with the participation of partners, volunteer organizations, or government agencies.
To protect your rights and receive appropriate recognition and remuneration, we advise every military personnel who has created something new and useful to seek legal assistance. Our team specializes in providing legal support to authors and developers in the field of defense technologies. We will provide comprehensive advice in simple, understandable language and ensure the correct recording of authorship, submission of applications, support for registration procedures, and assistance with the conclusion of contracts and legal formalization of relations with the state.
Contact us — we will ensure that your innovations are not only useful for the front lines, but also legally protected.
copyright / intellectual property / military men / protection
