Russia targets youth with drone building education amid war

In a significant shift in educational focus, Russia has initiated a project to teach high school students the skills needed to build and fly drones as part of a broader militarization effort linked to ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine. In late 2022, the country launched its Unmanned Aerial Systems project, aimed at boosting domestic drone production and developing a new generation of drone pilots and specialists. This initiative reflects a growing demand for unmanned aerial technologies in both military and civilian sectors, a trend exacerbated by the stark losses suffered by Russian military forces against Ukrainian innovations, including rudimentary drone tactics. The incorporation of drone manufacturing education represents a strategic response from the Kremlin, reinforcing its focus on integrating military themes into the national curriculum. A new textbook targeting various aspects of drone technology has been developed and added to the official federal educational resources. This action signifies the state’s commitment to increasing military capabilities and labor force in the drone sector, with projections suggesting that by 2030, as many as one million people could be involved in the industry. Stakeholders view this educational direction as crucial for preparing technically skilled individuals who can contribute to the burgeoning market. Additionally, the educational reform aligns with broader changes within the Russian education system, where military subjects and patriotic themes have gained prominence, prompting criticism regarding the curriculum's potential role in state propaganda. The introduction of this educational effort comes at a time when drone technology is seen as a vital asset in modern warfare and is gaining traction for its applications in a multitude of industries. Given the political and military context, critics raise concerns about the implications of this curriculum shift, especially regarding youth exposure to militaristic ideologies. In the context of the current geopolitical landscape, where drone warfare is increasingly pivotal, the Russian government's focus on education in this area can be seen not only as an investment in future military capabilities but also as an attempt to foster national pride and bolster governmental legitimacy amidst ongoing conflicts. As the landscape of warfare evolves with the integration of technology, the results of this initiative may not only reshape educational objectives but also impact the nature of conflict in the years to come.