Dronathon raises €1.3 million for Ukrainian and Lithuanian air defence

Eight weeks of fundraising by the Blue/Yellow aid organisation brought in more than €1.3 million for Ukraine’s and Lithuania’s air defences, LRT reported. The organisation said 80% of the money will go to Ukrainian forces and 20% to the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union.

The funds are being used to buy interceptor drones and anti-drone systems and to train their operators. Blue/Yellow began spending the money before the campaign ended in response to intensifying Russian air attacks.

The organisation said the first Lithuanian-made Defender interceptor drones had been bought and successfully tested. Four were handed to the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union, while 12 were given to Ukrainian defenders.

Blue/Yellow is also organising specialised training for members of the union, with Ukrainian specialists sharing practical experience in countering enemy drones.

Founded in 2014, Blue/Yellow provides material, technological and medical assistance to Ukrainian defenders and civilians. The organisation said it has delivered more than €116 million in aid to Ukraine over 12 years.