Wings for Europe is a non-profit and non-governmental organisation based in Belgium and Luxembourg that is mobilising supporters across the continent to assemble drones for Ukraine and raise awareness about the urgent need to strengthen European defences.
Established in 2023
The organisation was established in 2023, bringing together volunteers with diverse expertise, including humanitarian aid, defence analysis, drone technology, and logistics. The initiative is entirely donation-driven and relies on civilian engagement to produce and deliver First Person View (FPV) drones to Ukrainian defenders.
Volunteer Network
The organisation currently has over 60 volunteers across eight European countries, including Luxembourg, Belgium, France, Germany, the UK, Latvia, Lithuania, and Ukraine. These volunteers are assembling drones at a fraction of the cost of commercial models, which typically run €600-1,000 or more.
- Volunteers assemble drones at a fraction of the cost of commercial models
- Each trained volunteer can assemble a drone in three to four hours
- Volunteers can assemble between two and five drones per week during evenings and weekends
Impact
The organisation has delivered hundreds of drones to Ukraine so far, and the highest monthly production was 40 drones. The drones are capable of disabling Russian equipment worth hundreds of thousands of euros. By focusing on drones, Wings for Europe is making every euro count, saving lives and strengthening Europe’s overall resilience.
Financing
Wings for Europe is entirely funded by private contributions and sponsorships, with no government funding. The organisation partners with like-minded individuals, philanthropists, and businesses who believe in its mission. In return, donors receive visibility and involvement in a cause that directly strengthens European defence and solidarity.
European Parliament Engagement
The organisation regularly engages with the European Parliament, hosting events and workshops to raise awareness and build support. In recent months, Wings for Europe has hosted events for members of the European Parliament’s Security and Defence Committee, exploring the challenges and potential of drone warfare in Europe.
Future of Drone-Based Support
The future of drone-based support and civil tech initiatives across Europe is promising. The organisation sees a clear opportunity for Europe to build dual-use drone manufacturing capacity that serves both civilian and commercial needs, which could rapidly shift to military needs in a crisis. Investing in this now is not just smart policy – it’s essential for Europe’s long-term security.
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“I refuse to look away and choose to act instead. Joining our ‘Legion of Light’ is simple: anyone can visit our website and contribute to part of a drone, like a propeller or battery, or sponsor a full component set.” – Kotryna Vilnonyte, President of Wings for Europe
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“In Ukraine, civilian involvement in defence is massive. People are assembling drones and 3D-printing components in their homes, because they know they can’t wait for governments or allies to solve everything.” – Kotryna Vilnonyte, President of Wings for Europe
Table
| Component | Cost | Description |
| — | — | — |
| Drone Propeller | €50 | Essential component for drone assembly |
| Drone Battery | €70 | Critical component for drone operation |
| Drone Component Set | €350 | Full set of components for drone assembly |
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“We hope to announce joint projects with MEPs soon. Together with defence experts, we explored the challenges and potential of drone warfare in Europe. Some MEPs were visibly moved by what they learned and have since expressed an interest in getting directly involved.” – Kotryna Vilnonyte, President of Wings for Europe
Quote
“There’s a clear opportunity for Europe to build dual-use drone manufacturing capacity that serves both civilian and commercial needs, which could rapidly shift to military needs in a crisis. Investing in this now is not just smart policy – it’s essential for our long-term security.” – Kotryna Vilnonyte, President of Wings for Europe
Highlight
Wings for Europe is a non-profit and non-governmental organisation that is mobilising supporters across the continent to assemble drones for Ukraine and raise awareness about the urgent need to strengthen European defences.
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