Combat training

Russia introduces new combat training methods based on Syrian experience

The Russian Defense Ministry is introducing new methods of combat training based on the experience gained in Syria, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu said on Friday.

"Modern military conflicts are very brief. Decisions to create and prepare various groups of troops are made within tight deadlines. In view of these peculiarities and the experience gained in Syria the armed forces are introducing new forms and methods of combat training," he said.

Shoigu recalled that last winter’s checks indicated that the level of combat training had been up by 65 as compared with the same period last year.

According to the minister, combat potential of Russia’s armed forces over the past three years has grown. 

"Over the past three years the combat potential of the Armed Forces has been up 32%. The state defense contract has nearly doubled. Since 2013 the troops have received more than 15,000 pieces of new or upgraded military hardware," he said.