New blood transfusion capability saving lives at the frontline
Through support from Fritt Ukraina, a medical evacuation unit within Ukraine’s military intelligence service, HUR, has received modern equipment that enables blood transfusion directly in the field. The delivery significantly strengthens frontline medical capability, allowing life-saving treatment to begin far earlier than would otherwise be possible.
The equipment was delivered via PULSE, a Ukrainian organisation specialising in advanced prehospital medical training and support for military units operating under extreme conditions.
Photos: Fritt Ukraina
Blood transfusion closer to the point of injury
A core focus of PULSE’s training programme is enabling units to perform blood transfusions in demanding field environments. Rapid access to blood is critical in cases of massive haemorrhage, one of the leading causes of preventable death in combat.
The delivered equipment package includes a 56-litre blood cooler from Stream Defence, designed to maintain a stable storage temperature of four degrees Celsius for blood products. In addition, MEQU blood warmers from MEQU were supplied, ensuring that blood can be warmed to near body temperature prior to transfusion. The delivery also included blood typing equipment and other essential medical supplies.
For medics operating close to the frontline, this capability means blood transfusion can be initiated long before the patient reaches a hospital, significantly improving survival rates.
Training and equipment working together
PULSE combines equipment delivery with structured training, ensuring that medical personnel are fully prepared to use advanced capabilities under fire. Their programmes focus on haemorrhage control, airway management, shock treatment, and field blood transfusion, all performed in unstable and hostile environments.
The organisation provides training ranging from basic levels for all service members to advanced Combat Lifesaver, Combat Medic, and specialised prehospital blood transfusion courses. PULSE works closely with Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence and emergency services and is certified as a training centre by NAEMT, while also operating under the internationally recognised STOP THE BLEED programme.
To date, PULSE has trained tens of thousands of soldiers and continues to build sustainable medical capacity by educating instructors and equipping evacuation and medical teams with modern, field-proven equipment.
Norwegian support making a direct difference
Uncontrolled blood loss remains one of the most common causes of death among wounded soldiers. The ability to administer blood immediately in the field dramatically increases the chances of survival.
Full blood transfusion involves administering unprocessed whole blood from a donor to a recipient. In cases of massive bleeding, this provides red blood cells, plasma, and platelets simultaneously, making it particularly effective in acute trauma care.
At Ferno Norden Military Systems, we work closely with defence users to deliver advanced medical equipment and develop specialised training concepts within tactical medicine. Blood transfusion in the field is a key focus area, as it directly addresses one of the most critical gaps in combat casualty care.
Direct dialogue with Ukrainian medical units ensures that the right equipment is selected for real operational needs, rather than theoretical requirements. This approach allows Norwegian support to translate directly into saved lives on the battlefield.
Supporting critical units at the frontline
The receiving unit is part of Ukraine’s military intelligence service, HUR, which plays a central role in modern warfare through a combination of intelligence operations, special forces, and advanced drone capabilities. Fritt Ukraina supports multiple HUR units with vehicles and specialised equipment, strengthening both mobility and medical readiness.
This project demonstrates how targeted support, combining equipment, training, and close cooperation with end users, delivers tangible life-saving impact. Ferno Norden Military Systems recognises the commitment of Fritt Ukraina, PULSE, and Norwegian donors whose support continues to make a real difference where it matters most: at the frontline, under fire, saving lives.
