Ground drones are becoming an increasingly important means of support for Ukraine’s defenders. In circumstances where enemy unmanned aerial vehicles are constantly operating on the battlefield, the evacuation of the wounded is particularly dangerous. Remotely piloted ground vehicles make it possible to transport the wounded to a safer location without putting additional lives at risk.

“We can see that this technology plays a vital role in saving and protecting soldiers” lives. These drones have been made possible thanks to the people who have left their donations in reverse vending machines. Every bottle donated in Latvia has become part of a ground drone that is saving the lives of Ukrainian soldiers. This is a very concrete example of how a seemingly small everyday donation can provide truly significant help,” he emphasises Laura Skrodele, Director of the “Entrepreneurs for Peace” Foundation.

The land-based drones purchased in Ukraine have been specially adapted for the evacuation of the wounded. They are built on an extended quad bike chassis, fitted with four-wheel drive and an armoured capsule for transporting people. The drones’ load capacity allows them to evacuate a person weighing up to 200 kilograms, whilst with a full fuel tank they are capable of travelling distances of up to 200 kilometres. These vehicles are manufactured in Ukraine, taking into account real combat conditions and the needs of soldiers.

During the handover of the drones, Ukrainian soldiers particularly emphasised their importance in the evacuation of the wounded.

“These ground drones will enable us to evacuate our troops from their positions without sending a crew into the line of fire. Our soldiers will be able to remain safe and carry out evacuations remotely. This will help to save lives,” said a representative of the Ukrainian brigade, thanking the “Entrepreneurs for Peace” foundation and the people of Latvia for their support.

From warehouse packaging to aid at the front

Latvia’s deposit scheme offers residents the opportunity to donate the deposit fee due on returned packaging to support Ukraine. Taken together, these small donations from many people add up to significant funding for practical assistance to Ukraine’s defenders.

The “Entrepreneurs for Peace” Fund, in collaboration with the Deposit Packaging Operator, is converting these donations into essential aid for Ukrainian soldiers. Two new ground drones are a prime example of how the involvement of the Latvian public helps to provide technology that saves lives.

“The gratitude of Ukrainian soldiers is directed at every Latvian citizen who continues to help. This support is not merely financial — it enables Ukraine’s defenders to carry out their duties more safely and to bring their wounded comrades back from the battlefield,” he adds Laura Skrodele.

The “Entrepreneurs for Peace” Fund would like to thank all Latvian residents who donate their deposit fees in support of Ukraine, as well as the Deposit Packaging Operator for its cooperation and for making it possible to provide practical assistance to Ukraine’s defenders through the deposit system.