Russia expands military training in schools to 17 hours per year

Russian schools will increase basic military training in a compulsory national security course for students in grades 6 through 11, according to an announcement reported by Business Insider. The course, titled "Fundamentals of Homeland Security and Defense," totals 34 hours each school year.

Officials stated that 50 percent of the curriculum will now focus on military training, up from 20 percent previously.

Course content The training covers first aid, firearm handling, hand grenades, and drone operation. It also includes lessons on Russian military history, civic service, and wartime survival. The revised program revives elements of a Soviet-era subject that was discontinued in 1993 and partially restored after 2022.

Enforcement and expansion plans Independent Russian media outlet Vertska reported that prosecutors filed more than 200 lawsuits against schools in 2024 for failing to install required military training facilities. Officials discussed a separate 64-hour course focused on discipline, combat, and survival skills.

A pilot program for grades 9 through 11 in 10 regions, including occupied Crimea, was under consideration for September.

Context The changes occur amid statements by Western leaders, including the UK's prime minister and NATO's secretary general, that Russia may be prepared for a large-scale attack on Europe by 2030. A member of Russia's State Duma suggested that students begin war-relevant classes after fifth grade in response to those statements.