Nizhny Novgorod Launches Ministry to Shield Critical Infrastructure

The Nizhny Novgorod region has established a new Ministry for Critical Infrastructure Protection. The body will focus on safeguarding essential facilities in energy, transport, and communications. Vladimir Tuzhilin, the region’s deputy prime minister, will supervise its operations. Konstantin Bochkarev, a former Russian Armed Forces officer, has been appointed to lead the ministry. Its primary tasks include protecting state, special, and infrastructure assets from potential threats.

The ministry will manage counterterrorism security and issue rapid threat notifications. It will also organise a mobilisation reserve and oversee regional response headquarters for drone threats. Coordination with military command, law enforcement, local authorities, and critical infrastructure owners will be central to its work.

Additionally, the ministry plans to equip key sites with active and passive defence systems. It will develop and implement countermeasures specifically targeting drone attacks. The new ministry aims to strengthen the region’s resilience against emerging security risks. Its responsibilities span safeguarding vital sectors and coordinating rapid responses to threats. The initiative reflects a structured approach to protecting critical infrastructure in Nizhny Novgorod.