Russian Defense Minister Inspects Combat Training of Military Personnel of New Formations

09:35, 8 July 2023

In June, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu checked the frontline command post of the Zapad Group of Forces. He highlighted the efficiency of identifying and destroying military equipment and concentrations of enemy personnel in the tactical areas of the formation’s area of responsibility, ordered commanders to continue reconnaissance.

Sputnik

Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu has inspected the organization of training of military personnel of new formations at the training grounds of Russia’s Southern Military District, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Saturday.

"The Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation, General of the Army Sergey Shoigu checked the organization of combat training of contract military personnel of newly formed formations and military units at the training grounds of the Southern Military District," the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry specified that service members receive training in special tactical, medical, and firefighting skills, driving military and special equipment, as well as communications. The course of intensive training of contract soldiers lasts 38 days.

"Representatives of the command of the Southern Military District reported to Sergey Shoigu that all exercises at the training grounds are conducted under the guidance of officers with combat experience gained during the special military operation," the Russian defense ministry said.

According to the ministry, Shoigu checked the preparation and training of T-90 Proryv tank crews, as well as the way contract soldiers are trained in conducting combat operations in various conditions and terrain, including urban combat.

"All training is conducted on new military equipment […]. Trainees […] work out elements of protection against enemy fire, as well as skills to defeat Western weapons," the Russian defense ministry said.