Russia will teach children in school the basics of operating combat drones and other military skills, British intelligence reported in its daily update on the Russo-Ukrainian war on 24 July.

According to the UK report, Russian Senator Artem Sheijin announced that the “lessons will include how to conduct terrain reconnaissance and ways to counter enemy uncrewed aerial vehicles” (UAVs).

The UAV lessons join assault rifle training, hand grenade skills, and combat first aid. It is included in the renewed “Basics of Life Safety” syllabus for year 10 and 11 students. As per the report, military education will start on 1 September 2023.

“Russia’s revised emphasis on military induction for children is largely an effort to cultivate a culture of militarised patriotism rather than develop genuine capability,” said the UK Intel report.

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