Why the training is needed?

War in Ukraine keeps changing. New threats, such as fiber-optic FPV drones, mean frontline units need flexible, modern solutions right now. The shotgun has re-emerged as one of the most practical, versatile weapons for today’s battlefield: it stops small moving targets and drones

We’re launching a rapid, high-quality basic training program for defenders, focused on safety, logistics, unit integration, and counter-drone techniques. Will you help support it?

Why the training is important?

Shotguns can use a wider variety of ammunition than rifles, making them effective in anti-drone roles and against enemies at very short distances. However, many training centers prioritize rifles and lack modern, applicable shotgun programs tailored to today’s threats. Instead, rapid, realistic training saves lives: both by improving defender’s chances to survive and by giving units effective tools to counter drone threats.

What we’re asking for

We need support for a fast, practical training program for defenders and unit instructors. Your support will enable:

On-range training: upkeep and improvement of ranges, mechanized training aids, consumables and destructible targets, printed training materials, and training gear.
Mobile unit seminars: deploying instructors and equipment to military units for on-site classroom and practical sessions. Mobile training brings skills where they’re needed most, but requires added logistics and transport.

Both of these training formats need your support to guarantee safe, high-quality instruction and the right equipment.

Your gift will directly support:

Safe, regular on-range training with modern targets and consumables
Training-grade shotgun protective gear and supplies
Mechanized training aids and range upgrades to raise realism and efficiency
Mobile seminar logistics: transport, temporary equipment kits, and printed curricula
Instructor development so that skills multiply across unit

Who runs this program

The program will be run by Ivan Iliukhin - a practical shooting coach and military instructor with years of hands-on experience. From 2014–2018 Ivan took part in the war, and during the full-scale invasion he has been involved in defensive operations including liberation of Kyiv region and the liberation of Kharkiv region. Ivan trains both military personnel and civilians, and his primary specialty is the shotgun. Ivan’s civilian training school has produced top competitive shooters, including European Shotgun Champion and Vice-World Champion Oleksandra Iliukhina. Ivan’s training brings both combat-proven tactics and high sporting standards to every course.

Next Steps:

Please support this training that saves lives and strengthens defenses! Every contribution matters. Help us give defenders the skills and tools they need to defeat modern threats, from drones to close combat.

Thank you for standing with frontline defenders — practical training today means lives saved tomorrow.

More about this project

This project is a collaboration between Volya Radio and Sunflower Seeds Ukraine (https://www.sunflowerseedsukraine.org/)

Who we are:

Sunflower Seeds Ukraine is an all-volunteer organization that responds flexibly and efficiently to the most urgent needs in the hottest war zones in Ukraine. We stay agile due to our small size, multinational team, and direct on-site contacts that we developed in 2014-2015, and adapted to the new realities in 2022. Working with small grassroots organizations like ours is one of the most direct ways to help Ukraine.

More information:

The mission of Sunflower Seeds Ukraine is to save lives and strengthen the resolve in Ukraine by providing medical aid and protective gear to small groups of defenders at the front lines. For frequent updates about our efforts to save lives in Ukraine please like our Facebook page and follow our Instagram account.

Thank you for helping the kids affected by the war in Ukraine!

Sunflower Seeds Ukraine

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Help Train Defenders to Stop Drones!

Support a frontline training program equipping Ukrainian Defenders to counter drones. Your donation funds safe, rapid, high-quality instruction, equipment, and mobile training for defending units.

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