Russia Recruits Teens for Military Drone Development

Training Teens in Warfare Technology
These efforts are organized by Russia's Agency for Strategic Initiatives and supported by top officials, including President Vladimir Putin. Students selected through these programs are trained in drone design, programming, and electronic warfare.

Some work directly on military projects, assembling and coding drones within defense facilities. Others assist in building components for frontline gear or even train soldiers in drone operation.

One of the key platforms used is the government-backed Berloga gaming platform, which has attracted over 600,000 users. The incentive: students can earn up to 10 additional points on Russia's national school-leaving exam, offering a significant edge in university admissions.

Defense Ties and Paid Work for Minors
Another major initiative is the "Big Challenges" competition run by the Sirius Educational Center, closely linked to the Kremlin. In 2025, it drew more than 16,000 applicants who were tasked with solving technical problems submitted by industry partners—many of which are tied to Russia's defense sector and are under international sanctions.

Some students revealed they were offered flexible, pay-per-task jobs by companies working with the Russian Ministry of Defense. In some cases, these arrangements were made with parental consent. While a few participants admitted they knew their work supported the military, they viewed it as a patriotic responsibility.

Mass Drone Use and Global Concerns
Drones have become central to Russia's military strategy in Ukraine. According to Ukrainian intelligence group Frontelligence Insight, over 28,000 attack drones have been used by Russia since its full-scale invasion in 2022. The German Ministry of Defense warns that Russia aims to escalate its drone production to allow up to 2,000 strikes per day by November.

International observers have raised alarms. The involvement of minors in military production potentially violates global conventions and exposes them to severe risks, especially since drone facilities could become military targets. Despite these concerns, Moscow's recruitment of youth into the defense industry appears to be expanding rapidly.