2 february, 2026 | 119

“MITS x Azov Corps: Defense Technology Horizons 2026” brought together representatives of NATO member states and Ukrainian military personnel

A major miltech conference dedicated to the application of advanced technological solutions in the armed forces took place in Kyiv.

Speakers at “MITS x Azov Corps” included representatives of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine, as well as weapons developers and manufacturers, and servicemen from units of the Defense Forces that extensively employ cutting-edge technologies on the battlefield.

Addressing participants with opening remarks, the commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine, Denys “Redis” Prokopenko, emphasized that modern technologies integrated into combat operations must be simple to use and interoperable within command-and-control systems. This approach, he noted, enables the effective execution of a wide range of combat tasks, one of the most critical being the preservation of personnel. Accordingly, the First Corps Azov is ready to cooperate with partners in the application and testing of new technological solutions.

We use drones at sea, on land, and in the air. And we are successfully demonstrating that this technology works in modern warfare. I thank our international partners for their support of the National Guard. I thank our manufacturers for your tireless work. Through your efforts, you are strengthening our country’s defense capability.

Oleksandr Pivnenko

Brigadier General, Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine

During the event, military personnel, together with guests from NATO member states and Ukrainian defense technology manufacturers, discussed current trends in military affairs and the miltech sector in Ukraine, Europe, and globally.

We must aim for more than merely buying Europe time to rearm with Ukrainian technologies at the cost of Ukrainian lives. Russia’s defeat is the right outcome not only for Ukraine, but also for Europe’s security and for Russia’s return to the civilized world.

Perry Boyle

Co-Founder and CEO of MITS Capital

The organizers expressed their gratitude for the participation and support of the defense innovation cluster Brave1 and Ukrainian defense manufacturers Unwave, Infozahyst, and Vyriy.

1 corps azov 1 corps ngu azov azov corps azov miltech conference modern technologies national guard national guard of ukraine

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FAQ

Unlike the operational and tactical group model, a corps commander can exercise command and control over subordinate units.

The corps system enables more efficient management of combat forces at the operational-tactical level. It addresses the issue of fragmented command structures, strengthens unit cohesion, improves combat effectiveness, and ensures a unified chain of command — critical for conducting large-scale combat operations.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is responsible for key tasks related to both defensive and offensive operations in the frontline sector designated by the High Command, including:

Liberating the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine;
Destroying enemy personnel and equipment;
Increasing the combat effectiveness of National Guard units and advancing the profession of arms;
Implementing standards and exchanging experience.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is commanded by Colonel Denys “Redis” Prokopenko.

The following units operate as part of the corps:

1st Presidential Operational Brigade “Bureviy”;
8th Artillery Brigade “Harmash”;
12th Special Forces Brigade “Azov”;
14th Operational Brigade “Chervona Kalyna”;
15th Operational Brigade “Kara Dag”;
20th Operational Brigade “Lubart”.

Yes. Units within the corps continue recruiting volunteers. As Azov’s responsibilities and operational scope grow, its recruitment center network will serve the needs of all Corps units. Azov Brigade’s recruitment centers will now be joined by representatives from other brigades that make up the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine.

The 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov serves as the foundation for the newly established First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine. However, the corps itself is led by a corps-level command group formed based on the officer cadre of the 12th Brigade.

“MITS x Azov Corps: Defense Technology Horizons 2026” brought together representatives of NATO member states and Ukrainian military personnel

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FAQ

Why was the corps system introduced?

What tasks will the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine carry out?

Who is the commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

What units comprise the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

Does the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine recruit new service members?

Is the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine expanding into a corps?

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