Security and defense sector of Ukraine in the mechanism of realization of the defense function of the state

The article highlights the aspects of the Security and Defense Sector’s defense function. Based on the analysis of the legislationof Ukraine, the specifics of the normative regulation of the content of the category “defense”, as well as the diversity of doctrinal understandingof this category are highlighted. It is noted that the defense function of the state is realized, in fact, by all elements of the powermechanism. In this way, the state of readiness of the state “defense forces” necessary for the flow of armed aggression is achieved.Along with this, it was noted that within the framework of the state mechanism, it is expedient to single out those structures whosecompetence directly provides for the implementation of the defense function.The structure of the security and defense sector contains four components, which are differentiated according to their functionalpurpose and legal nature. In particular, these are: 1) security forces; 2) defense forces; 3) defense-industrial complex; 4) public associationsthat voluntarily participate in ensuring national security. It is also worth noting that the institutional components of Ukraine’ssecurity and defense sector belong to both the state apparatus and civil society institutions.The content of the categories “security forces” and “defense forces” is distinguished. Security forces are law enforcement andintelligence agencies, state bodies of special purpose with law enforcement functions, civil defense forces, as well as other bodiesentrusted by the Constitution and laws of Ukraine with functions to ensure the national security of Ukraine. In turn, the defense forcesinclude the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as other military formations, law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies formedin accordance with the laws of Ukraine, as well as special purpose bodies with law enforcement functions, which are assigned by theConstitution and laws of Ukraine. The main institutional element of the Security and Defense Sector is the Armed Forces of Ukraine.It is the Armed Forces that protect the sovereignty of the state and territorial integrity, as well as ensure the inviolability of state borders.Emphasis is placed on the function of the National Guard of Ukraine and the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine as important componentsof the security and defense sector.It is noted that today the subordination of military institutions and law enforcement agencies to various ministries and authoritiesis a factor that may negatively affect their interaction in the process of performing the tasks provided by law. Therefore, we consider itexpedient for the President of Ukraine, as the Head of State and the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, toadopt a normative act on cooperation between the Security and Defense Sector in the process of armed defense of Ukraine’s territorialintegrity and state sovereignty.