In a powerful demonstration of national pride and resilience, the Antonov Company, Ukraine’s premier aerospace manufacturer, has joined the patriotic communication campaign “Be Brave Like Ukraine.” This initiative pays tribute to the courageous resistance of the Ukrainian people amid the Russian invasion by naming its fleet of aircraft after cities recognized for their heroism.
As symbols of Ukraine’s determination and unity, these aircraft are not just flying machines—they are flying testaments of bravery, carrying the spirit of Ukraine around the world. Each aircraft now bears the name of a hero city, making every flight a mission of remembrance, honor, and global solidarity.
The decision to rename the Antonov aircraft is more than symbolic—it is an act of historical preservation and global messaging. Each aircraft name reflects the struggles and resilience of a specific Ukrainian city that has stood firm in the face of Russian aggression.
Aircraft Model
Tail Number
City Honored
New Aircraft Name
AN-124-100
UR82029
Bucha
BE BRAVE LIKE BUCHA
AN-124-100
UR82073
Irpin
BE BRAVE LIKE IRPIN
AN-124-100M
UR82027
Kharkiv
BE BRAVE LIKE KHARKIV
AN-124-100M
UR82007
Mykolaiv
BE BRAVE LIKE MYKOLAIV
AN-124-100M
UR82008
Okhtyrka
BE BRAVE LIKE OKHTYRKA
AN-124-100-150
UR82072
Kherson
BE BRAVE LIKE KHERSON
AN-124-100M-150
UR82009
Mariupol
BE BRAVE LIKE MARIUPOL
AN-28
UR-NTE
Chernihiv
BE BRAVE LIKE CHERNIHIV
AN-158
UR-EXJ
Volnovakha
BE BRAVE LIKE VOLNOVAKHA
AN-178
UR-EXP
Hostomel
BE BRAVE LIKE HOSTOMEL
These names do not just reflect cities—they reflect the heart and soul of a nation fighting for freedom and sovereignty. From Bucha to Hostomel, each name carved into Antonov’s aircraft wings speaks volumes to the global community.
A Campaign of Resilience: Be Brave Like Ukraine
The “Be Brave Like Ukraine” campaign is a nationwide communication initiative that amplifies stories of Ukrainian courage. Through this project, brands, artists, and institutions like Antonov are stepping forward to celebrate and immortalize the unyielding spirit of Ukrainian citizens.
Antonov Company, known globally for its AN-124 Ruslan and the legendary Mriya (AN-225), is leveraging its international presence to spread Ukraine’s message of bravery. By associating its aircraft with hero cities, Antonov is contributing to the soft power strategy of Ukraine—telling the world about the atrocities faced and the resilience demonstrated.
This is a powerful form of Ukrainian aviation tribute that extends beyond military or economic significance. It showcases cultural resilience and reinforces the concept of unity through symbolic gestures.
Hero Cities: Symbols of Sacrifice and Strength
The cities honored are not selected at random—they represent some of the fiercest battles and civilian resistance during the Russian invasion. Cities like Mariupol, Bucha, and Irpin became global symbols of war crimes, civilian resistance, and humanitarian crisis.
Mariupol endured a brutal siege that led to international outcry.
Bucha and Irpin became known for mass civilian casualties.
Kharkiv and Mykolaiv withstood repeated missile attacks.
Chernihiv and Volnovakha fought despite being heavily outnumbered.
Hostomel, home to the Antonov airfield, was one of the first battlegrounds of the war.
Through the aircraft names, Antonov ensures that the sacrifices made in these hero cities are never forgotten. They become part of the global aviation narrative and serve as flying reminders of Ukraine’s fight for freedom.
Ukrainian National Pride Through Aviation
Antonov has long been a source of national pride in Ukraine. Its aircraft are renowned for engineering excellence and reliability. In peacetime, these aircraft were symbols of innovation. In wartime, they have become vessels of resistance.
With these new names, Antonov strengthens Ukrainian national pride by turning their aircraft into airborne monuments. This transformation sends a clear message to the world—Ukraine stands united, proud, and unbroken. The symbolism aligns perfectly with Ukraine’s defense strategies, morale-boosting efforts, and international diplomacy.
This campaign also reflects the broader effort to consolidate national identity during conflict, showing how industrial and cultural sectors collaborate to resist and communicate.
Global Support and Defense Fundraising
The aircraft name change campaign also aims to support broader initiatives related to Ukrainian military support. Several organizations are currently accepting donations to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities, particularly through tech and drone development:
Come Back Alive – A foundation supporting soldiers with technical gear and training.
MacPaw Development Fund – An IT company’s fund to support the military and civilians.
Army SOS – A volunteer project producing and supplying military drones.
TechUkraine – A hub that supports tech donations and innovation to aid the resistance.
These organizations rely on global solidarity and the willingness of the international community to support the people of Ukraine in practical, impactful ways.
Why Aircraft Naming Matters in Wartime
Aircraft naming during wartime is a time-honored tradition. From WWII bombers to modern fighter jets, names are used to inspire, commemorate, and instill fear or hope. In Ukraine’s case, naming cargo and transport planes after hero cities serves several key purposes:
Preservation of memory – Ensures that stories of civilian bravery and resistance are never forgotten.
Global visibility – As these aircraft travel internationally, they raise awareness.
Moral boosting – Strengthens the resolve of soldiers and civilians alike.
Cultural diplomacy – Projects a message of unity and resilience globally.
Through symbolic acts like this, Ukraine continues to build a powerful narrative of strength in the face of overwhelming odds.
Conclusion
The naming of Antonov aircraft after Ukrainian hero cities is not just an act of branding—it is a deeply symbolic gesture that integrates aviation, patriotism, and cultural resilience. These aircraft now serve as airborne ambassadors of the Ukrainian spirit, reminding the world of the cost of freedom and the strength of a nation under siege.
As these airplanes soar above continents, they echo the bravery of cities like Mariupol, Bucha, and Hostomel. They transform from cargo carriers to symbols of resistance and unity. This bold initiative by Antonov Company ensures that the courage of Ukrainians will resonate far beyond the borders of their homeland.
FAQs
What is the “Be Brave Like Ukraine” campaign?
The “Be Brave Like Ukraine” campaign is a national initiative launched to celebrate and promote Ukrainian resilience and bravery during the ongoing war with Russia. Various institutions, including Antonov Company, participate by honoring hero cities and raising global awareness.
Which cities have Antonov aircraft been named after?
Antonov aircraft have been named after Ukrainian hero cities such as Bucha, Irpin, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Okhtyrka, Kherson, Mariupol, Chernihiv, Volnovakha, and Hostomel. These cities represent key sites of resistance and suffering during the war.
Why did Antonov name their aircraft after hero cities?
Antonov named their aircraft to honor the resilience of Ukrainian cities and their role in resisting Russian invasion. It serves as a tribute to bravery, a tool for global messaging, and a morale booster for the Ukrainian people.
How can people support Ukraine through this initiative?
People can support Ukraine by donating to organizations such as Come Back Alive, Army SOS, MacPaw Development Fund, and TechUkraine. These groups provide critical support to Ukrainian military and tech-based defense operations.
What role does aviation play in Ukraine’s national identity?
Aviation, particularly through Antonov, plays a key role in Ukraine’s national pride and identity. During wartime, it also becomes a symbol of resilience and a platform for raising global awareness through initiatives like aircraft naming.
