The Defense Ministry of Russia reported that Army General Sergei Shoigu, the country’s defense minister, led a session focused on combat training for contracted military personnel and volunteers within the BARS units at the Southern Military District’s training grounds. This update was provided by the ministry through its press service and subsequently shared via Telegram channels.
The head of the combat training department for the Southern Military District briefed Shoigu on the scope of ongoing instruction. The programs cover a wide range of essential military skills, including specialized tactical training, marksmanship and fire control, medical readiness, and engineering tasks. Additional curricula prepare personnel to operate unmanned aerial vehicles, manage driver-technician duties, and master other critical military specializations. The emphasis remains on building capabilities that reflect current operational demands and postulated field scenarios.
According to the department head, the lessons draw on operational experiences from recent campaigns, including the need to evacuate wounded personnel from equipment and trenches. Participants also learn how to maintain and protect communications during offensive operations, ensuring command and control remains intact under stress. These insights shape training objectives and practical exercises designed to improve both individual performance and team cohesion in high-intensity situations.
Shoigu was additionally acknowledged for the support of medical service personnel across the Russian Armed Forces, including contract soldiers and volunteers. Within the training environment, their work focuses on delivering medical care in combat conditions, and the minister expressed appreciation by presenting wristwatches to those who contribute significantly to medical readiness and field treatment capabilities.
Officials noted that travel to certain areas under active or restricted conditions requires appropriate authorization, a measure outlined to ensure safety and security within the Northern Military Region and related zones. This clarification aligns with standard procedures intended to govern movement and access during periods of heightened security concerns.
In summary, the session demonstrates ongoing efforts by the Southern Military District to align training with contemporary operational requirements, enhance medical and emergency response capabilities, and reinforce the readiness of contracted forces and volunteer specialists who support national defense missions. Attribution: Official statements from the Russian Ministry of Defense and related public briefings.