The military-industrial sector, including the army, is seeking to attract more young technicians and specialists, particularly in drone piloting. Drone piloting learning schools for children, youth, and adults are starting to multiply in the country, encouraging students to focus more on technical education.
Nearly 14 years old, covered by his father’s gaze, he sits on a folding chair, his eyes moving back and forth between a tablet, several controllers, and the sky swept by gusts of strong wind. It’s easy to guess what he’s scanning for before his gaze is lifted: the light but shrill sound of a drone hovering above the heads. No way to photograph it among the crowd gathered at this annual patriotic festival on an aerodrome in the countryside, a half-hour drive from Lipetsk. Yet, Artëm is already a small local celebrity: he is the drone flying champion of his region, with a high ranking in national championships.
“My father showed me a video on the internet where a pilot assembled drones and made them fly, and asked me if I was interested. I loved it and got into it,” he says. His interest has nothing to do with military confrontations; what Artëm loves is being able to admire beautiful landscapes while flying and the potential career opportunities, especially in competitions. “Well, when I grow up, everything can change, so I don’t know yet what I’ll do in the future. But drones can be used for irrigation, taking photos, and even making money,” he adds.
The widespread use of drones in the civilian sector and the career prospects associated with them are being discussed by many local small businesses at the festival. There’s also a focus on civilian drone use, with some individuals demonstrating and discussing the technical capabilities of the technology.
In the halls of stands set up on the grass, there are officers promoting their military academy of the air force– one of the most important in Russia, according to one of them. Alongside them are students considering drone piloting courses as part of their future career paths. These are just some examples of the increasing interest and investment in drone technology that is becoming more prevalent in various regions of Russia.
In Novosibirsk, a university professor’s audio recording criticizing students’ lack of enthusiasm for military engagement became controversial. The incident, along with other reports and allegations of pressure tactics at universities, has prompted authorities to respond and deny any coercion in recruiting students for drone pilot roles.
Amidst all these developments, children and teenagers are participating in activities like obstacle courses, automatic weapons testing, and meeting instructors like “Sergueï,” who is involved in drone teaching and training for young students. The increase in drone schools and training centers is also encouraging more students to consider technical education over traditional academic pathways.
The transition to technical education from an early age is raising concerns among some educators, with criticism regarding the declining quality of technical education and the potential impact on students’ overall academic development. Additionally, the influence of military veterans, like Alexander Yastreb, in various political and social spheres is indicative of a wider societal shift and the role they may play in shaping the future of the country.
Amidst these changing dynamics, the debate around the recruitment and training of drone pilots, the role of military veterans in politics, and the broader implications for Russia’s future are central themes that are being discussed with increasing urgency.
