Enhanced Ukrainian Army New Recruit Training Program Extended to 2 Months
Recruits into the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) will now undergo two months of induction training, a significant increase from the previous 45 days, as announced by Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky following the AFU’s final 2024 meeting on training military personnel. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by both recruits and receiving units about the inadequacy of current training programs, leading to higher casualties and decreased morale among soldiers once they are deployed in combat situations.
New Training Program Details
Under the new program, basic training will be expanded to one and a half months from the current 30 days. Recruits will also undergo a two-week training period at their receiving unit before being assigned to a military job. This adjustment aims to provide fresh inductees with a total of 45 days of training, combining both induction and unit-specific training to better prepare them for the challenges of modern warfare. According to Syrsky, this comprehensive approach is crucial to ensuring that soldiers are adequately equipped to handle combat situations effectively.
Challenges Faced by AFU
The AFU has been grappling with serious personnel shortages in combat units due to casualties, desertion, and a lack of reinforcements and rotations. One of the main issues highlighted by troops and receiving units is the insufficient training in basic combat skills such as first aid, marksmanship, and field fortifications. In contrast to NATO armies, which invest six to nine months in preparing recruits during peacetime, the AFU has historically lacked the resources to provide advanced training in combat skills like small unit tactics and battlefield leadership.
Looking Ahead
While Syrsky acknowledges the limitations in training resources and manpower to meet NATO standards, he emphasizes the importance of on-the-job learning for troops. The extended training program marks a significant step towards addressing the gaps in the current training regime and ensuring that Ukrainian soldiers are better equipped to handle the complexities of modern warfare.
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