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In just two weeks, Fritt Ukraina delivered life-saving equipment to several of the most active units on the Ukrainian front. The shipment included vehicles, drones, Starlink equipment, and large power banks, and went to units that Fritt Ukraina has closely supported over time. Ukrainian key partners played an important role in making the delivery possible.
“Our friends need all the help they can get,” says Thomas Jøraanstad, one of the volunteers who took part in the transport.
Fritt Ukraina has long maintained close cooperation with selected Ukrainian units, enabling rapid delivery of critical equipment when needs arise. The latest transport was particularly demanding because the situation along the front in Donetsk and other areas is tense. The enemy is advancing, infrastructure and civilian targets are being attacked, and winter has fully set in, bringing cold that makes conditions especially challenging for soldiers and civilians.
Natalia Golis, Secretary General of Fritt Ukraina, underscores that needs are increasing as temperatures drop and fighting intensifies.
“Support from Norway means a great deal, both practically and morally, for the units facing the toughest battles,” she says.
Multiple types of equipment are essential now that conditions are colder and the front more unstable. Winter clothing and insulated uniforms are necessary to maintain operational capability, especially for UAV operators who often work in stationary positions for long periods.
“Anything that improves mobility, communication, and surveillance saves lives. We clearly see how Norwegian support reaches those who need it and makes a difference,” says Golis.
Power banks have become absolutely essential because Russian forces continuously attack power grids and infrastructure. Without them, units lose the ability to keep communications and equipment operational. Starlink is a lifeline for communication along the front, connecting units, intelligence, and drone operations. Drones used for reconnaissance, observation, and intelligence often determine whether a unit stays one step ahead of—or behind—the enemy.
Only two weeks from request to delivery
The shipment consisted of eight vans delivered to Magyar’s Birds, a well-known drone unit, as well as equipment for the 6th SOF, the 12th Special Purpose Center—known, among other things, for the “Bergen drone”—and various UAV units. In addition, large power banks, Starlink systems, drones, and other critical equipment were delivered.
“It took only two weeks from the initial request to delivery,” says Natalia Golis.
The vehicles and equipment were selected for quality and function, and the team executing the transport consisted of experienced members of Fritt Ukraina. The delivery was carefully coordinated with the recipients to ensure that everything arrived at the correct units, at the right time, and under safe conditions.
“This equipment is of great importance to those receiving it,” says Thomas Jøraanstad.
See also: The “Bergen 2” drone protects Ukrainian airspace from Russian drones
Important and coordinated cooperation
The delivery to Magyar’s Birds and other units was especially valuable. In close cooperation with Irene Avetisian and People’s Self-Defence Lviv, Fritt Ukraina maintains a long-term support relationship with these units, ensuring that assistance meets real needs. Several soldiers expressed their appreciation for the quality of the equipment.
“I’ve never driven a vehicle as good as the one we received from Fritt Ukraina,” said one of the soldiers, according to Irene Avetisian.
The transport could not have been carried out without collaboration with key partners who contribute to coordination, logistics, and financing, enabling rapid delivery to units with high operational tempo and significant support needs.
“Our partners are essential for fast delivery. This shipment demonstrates how Fritt Ukraina and its partners can act swiftly and decisively to support those on the front line, even under difficult conditions,” says Natalia Golis.
The shipment was Fritt Ukraina’s transport number 102.
“With carefully planned logistics, motivated drivers, and close cooperation with familiar units, critical equipment can reach where it is needed most and help ensure that soldiers and civilians receive the support they need to face the winter and the ongoing attacks,” she adds.
Read also: “Magyar” Thanks for 70 Vehicles
