At the moment, Ukraine is relying on the goodwill of its allies and the purchase of satellite imagery from private companies. One election and the whole situation could become complicated, and Ukraine could be within a day without information that is crucial to its strategy and defence.

We also wish Dragon has already been flying for some time, but 2026 is the earliest possible date when it is technically possible to have the satellite ready and the Ukrainian side is very interested in launching it. There are only two options. Either in 2026 the Ukrainians will still be resisting the Russian occupation, or Ukraine will be guarding the eastern border of NATO and Europe. Either way, Dragon will be vitally important.

The Czech Republic is also involved in the development of the satellite. However, years of research and investment were needed even to begin the production of Dragon. That's why we will continue to seek some funding from larger donors and investors. The Dragon mission is not a commercial project, although the companies involved will obviously learn a lot, no one expects a return on their investment, or, better yet, profit large enough to be meaningful to investors.

Ultimately, though, we believe crowdfunding is a great way to allow everyone to be a part of something wonderful and big. One star in the sky will be yours too, and we think that's great.

The Endowment Fund for Ukraine, which runs the Weapons to Ukraine initiative, is one of the most trustworthy Czech organisations focused on military aid to Ukraine. Dragon is military hardware and raising funds for it on standard platforms is impossible. That's why we have teamed up and the technical and administrative matters of the campaign will be handled by people from the foundation.