Preventing and combating terrorism will be the main task for Ukraine's armed forces in the next five years, Ukrainian Defense Minister Anatony Hrytsenko said on Tuesday.

Under a newly-completed 2006-2011 development plan, the military should also shoulder the responsibilities to prevent the spread of crimes and conflicts from other countries to Ukraine, he said at a ceremony to mark the 14th national independence anniversary.

The plan also analyzed the tasks faced by the armed forces, stipulated under what circumstances the armed forces can be used, as well as the concrete requirements for its use, the minister said.

The defense ministry has reportedly submitted the plan to the government for approval.

Ukraine's armed forces comprise navy, army and air force, with a total of 350,000 servicemen.

Source: Xinhua