From September 1, Military Units to Mandate Body Cameras for Operations
Starting from September 1, personnel within the Territorial Central Camouflage (TCC) and Special Police (SP) units will be required to use body cameras to record their activities during alert procedures.
This decision, announced by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and security within military operations.
Concurrently, a dedicated IT system is being developed to unify and centralize video recording processes, ensuring reliable storage and quick access for analysis and investigations.
The new system includes the procurement of standardized cameras with high data security, creation of a protected storage facility, and deployment of software capable of rapid video analysis.
Implementation of this technology aims to reduce conflicts, prevent abuses, and build a trustworthy evidence base for operational claims.
Recordings will automatically start at the beginning of alert activities and continue without interruption until completion, with exceptions for military-sensitive information or personal needs.
Personnel are strictly prohibited from deleting, altering, disabling, or sharing recordings with third parties.
Control over proper usage lies with designated officers within the TCC, while direct supervisors oversee the integrity of the stored footage.
After shift completion, recordings are automatically uploaded to a secure, centralized server, with a minimum retention period of 30 days, extendable for investigations or court proceedings.
Violations of the camera usage rules will lead to disciplinary actions — from warnings to demotion or dismissal, and in some cases, the materials may be handed over to law enforcement agencies.
The system’s administrator will be the Military Law Enforcement Service, ensuring the safeguarding of stored data against unauthorized access or interference.
The Ministry of Defense emphasizes that this initiative will significantly minimize risks related to unauthorized access and tampering, thereby strengthening operational security and building public confidence in military accountability.