Genetic registration of military personnel: how and why the Ministry of Defense collects DNA
DNA collection from military personnel is one of the key procedures for their registration in war conditions, as it allows creating a reliable system of personal identification in cases of death or disappearance. Genetic information provides accuracy and speed of recognition, which is impossible using traditional documentary or visual methods. At the same time, it requires compliance with strict legislative and ethical norms in order to avoid any violations of the rights of military personnel. The selection of biological samples is carried out using methods that guarantee security, confidentiality and targeted use of data, while excluding the possibility of using DNA to establish kinship or other tasks not provided for by law.
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has introduced a system of collection and storage of biological samples from military personnel with a clearly defined goal – to ensure rapid and accurate identification of persons in the event of death or disappearance during hostilities. This practice has nothing to do with establishing family ties or biological kinship, and its regulatory basis is enshrined in the legislation and internal orders of the Ministry of Defense.
According to the words of the Ministry of Defense specialists, biological material is obtained by taking buccal epithelial cells from the inner surface of the cheek. For this purpose, a special applicator is used, which ensures safe and effective sample collection without compromising the health of the serviceman. The department emphasizes that this procedure meets international standards and is non-invasive, which guarantees comfort and safety for every serviceman.
Since 2025, the defense department has introduced a full cycle of biological sample collection and storage, which is regulated by the Law of Ukraine “On State Registration of Human Genomic Information”. Within the framework of this cycle, the procedure for labeling, processing and long-term storage of materials has been determined, which makes it impossible to use them for other purposes.
As noted by the Ministry of Defense, the main goal of DNA collection from military personnel is two specific tasks: searching for missing persons and identifying the deceased. At the same time, any attempts to use genomic data to establish paternity or family ties have no legal basis, and such requests from relatives or representatives of the military cannot be considered.
The procedures for collecting and accounting for samples are determined by the Order of the Ministry of Defense of July 28, 2023 No. 438. The Genomic Information Accounting Center is responsible for entering materials into the database and ensuring their confidentiality, controlling access and use of data only for targeted tasks.
The Ministry of Defense emphasizes that during martial law, the selection of biological material is mandatory and is carried out in accordance with the legislation and approved procedures. The formation of a single database of genomic information allows for the prompt identification of servicemen in critical situations, which significantly speeds up the process of notifying families and maintaining official documentation.
In addition to genetic data, the Ministry of Defense is developing a system for identifying servicemen using other biometric features, including fingerprints and dental data. This creates a comprehensive control system that allows for accurate identification of a person in any circumstances and ensures a high level of security while performing official tasks.
