Help Us Buying Anti-Drone “РЕБ” Devices 💙💛🙏🏽
Since the large-scale Russian invasion began three years ago, we’ve been freelance reporting from all fronts of the war in Ukraine. For over 1,110 days and nights, we tirelessly documented the harsh realities of war, uncovering stories that need to be told. From the battlefields to bombed cities left in ruins, we’ve remained committed to bringing you authentic and unfiltered information from the frontlines.
This effort has resulted in over 1,200 written articles and nearly 100 video recordings, all produced under extremely challenging conditions, often from ground zero.
Readers who value the importance of first-hand reporting have widely appreciated these pieces of journalism. Over the years, we’ve received countless messages of encouragement and support. Among the most common feedback is a recurring sentiment: many people would like to support our work actively. They recognize the crucial role of on-the-ground reporting, particularly in countering Russian propaganda and disinformation. In a world where narratives can be manipulated from behind computer screens, the value of being physically present at the heart of the conflict cannot be overstated. Moreover, the Russian aggression in Ukraine cannot leave reporters far from the ground. The resilience we saw from people of any age cannot remain untold. The world must see what Russia does in Ukraine. This is why we continue to risk our lives to tell these stories.
Initially, we were reluctant to accept donations. We strongly believed in our ability to operate independently, covering all the costs for necessities, cars, fuel, first-aid kits, and defense tools like tourniquets, bulletproof vests, helmets, etc. For years, we funded our reporting through personal savings and minimal income from publishing partnerships. However, the nature of this war has changed dramatically, and so have the risks associated with reporting from the frontlines.
One harrowing moment that led us to reconsider was a recent experience during one of our reports. While near a conflict zone, we narrowly survived an FPV drone attack – a type of precision-guided unmanned aerial vehicle increasingly used in warfare. The attack was sudden and deadly, and it highlighted the growing dangers we face daily.
We came to a realization: while our dedication to reporting the truth remains steadfast, we need to ensure our safety and the safety of those around us against such threats if we are to continue this mission. This is why we are launching this crowdfunding initiative and asking for your support.
The funds raised through this initiative will go toward purchasing and installing anti-drone “РЕБ” (REB) devices, possibly on each of our vehicles. These devices are critical in protecting us from drone attacks, particularly when we are operating near hot zones to capture footage and interviews. The importance of these devices cannot be overstated – they are not just for our safety but also anyone in our vicinity.
After initially starting a campaign with a smaller target in mind, we met with technicians who usually install and soldiers who daily use devices like the ones we aimed at buying, realizing that the cost for a well-equipped system is considerably higher than what we originally planned. If this means waiting longer, we are willing to wait. The important thing is to know that with the right device, we can really protect those around us under our umbrella.
The specific device we aim to install is the Reb Contra-drone 9 Ultra, which is designed to jam drone signals across multiple frequency ranges: 200–1,200 MHz, 2,390–2,500 MHz, and 5,725–5,850 MHz. This comprehensive frequency coverage ensures maximum protection against a variety of drones, including FPV models and those operated via GPS or Wi-Fi.
We have already seen kits like this operating near the Kursk front, and they effectively provide a nice range of protection, neutralizing attacks like the one we survived in Marhanets.
The cost of buying and installing a single device is approximately €9,000. Beyond the device, we must modify our vehicles to ensure proper functionality. These include reinforcing the car roof, which is essential to prevent damage caused by the weight and operation of the device, providing concealment for the antennas when necessary, and upgrading the vehicle battery because Anti-drone systems consume significant power. We need more reliable batteries to keep the device operational even when the car is turned off. Some minor but essential adjustments to the vehicle’s wiring system will ensure seamless integration of the anti-drone equipment. Lastly, some cover to hide the antennas when not in use is needed for two reasons: not to be spotted by drones operating at considerably higher altitudes, scanning the ground with their cameras in search for systems like them, and to prevent them from being stolen.
Though we initially planned to adopt some cheaper solutions, all technicians and soldiers converged on strongly suggesting we buy a complete system like those mentioned above, which covers wide frequency ranges, saying that otherwise, other upgrades would be needed to reach that almost full coverage.
Our work has never been easy, but our challenges today are unparalleled. The FPV drone attack we survived is just one of many incidents that underscore the dangers of reporting from active conflict zones. We miraculously survived a ДРГ ambush by a Russian sabotage and reconnaissance group (ДРГ), a thermobaric bomb incident (while reporting near a conflict zone, a thermobaric bomb landed just 400 meters from us, fortunately not detonating), the effects of artillery rounds when were reporting in an area targeted by Russian artillery and a shell struck mere seconds after we had moved away from the impact zone, leaving us shaken but determined to continue our work.
Each of these incidents reinforces the need for enhanced safety measures. While we accept the inherent risks of our work, we also believe that with the right equipment – such as anti-drone devices – we can minimize these risks and continue reporting effectively.
The presence of anti-drone devices on our vehicles will not only protect us but also benefit the people around us. These systems have a range of several hundred meters, which means that any civilians, defenders, or humanitarian workers in our vicinity will also be shielded from drone attacks, giving our presence in the hot zones an even broader importance.
This dual purpose aligns with our mission: to provide first-hand, credible information from the frontlines while contributing to the safety and security of those we encounter. By supporting this crowdfunding campaign, you’re not just helping us counter misinformation but also protecting more lives in Ukraine.
Why is first-hand reporting so important? Information spreads quickly in today’s digital age, but accuracy is often sacrificed for speed. Misinformation and propaganda are rampant, especially in conflicts like this one, where the stakes are global. Russian disinformation campaigns have worked tirelessly to distort the narrative, creating confusion and undermining the legitimacy of Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty.
Our work aims to cut through the noise. We’ve been on the ground, witnessing events as they unfold. We daily speak with soldiers, civilians, and humanitarian workers, capturing and sharing their stories with the world. This kind of reporting not only counters disinformation but also humanizes the conflict, reminding people that behind every headline are real lives affected by war.
We understand that not everyone can contribute financially, and that’s okay. Even spreading the word about this campaign can make a huge difference. If you can contribute, know that your support will go directly toward purchasing and installing these anti-drone devices, as well as the necessary vehicle modifications.
Of course, we will keep you all updated with pictures and take note of every step of this project, as we did over the last months, daily reporting from all over Ukraine.
Every euro counts. Whether it’s €10 or €1,000, your contribution will help us stay in the field, documenting the realities of this war and ensuring that the world continues to hear the truth.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported us in any way – whether through words of encouragement, sharing our work, or financial contributions. Your support keeps us going, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
We promise to continue sharing our best work with you as we move forward. From the bombed cities to the trenches, from the displaced families to the defenders on the frontlines, we will keep reporting the truth.
With your help, we can do so more safely and effectively.
Thank you for believing in our mission and standing with us during these difficult times. Together, we can ensure that Ukraine’s resilience is not forgotten and that truth prevails over propaganda.
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Here’s the link to our fundraising campaign:
