In an undisclosed location in eastern France, over 2,000 Ukrainian soldiers are being trained by the French army to form a combined-arms brigade ready for deployment on the frontlines of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This training program, which was announced by French President Emmanuel Macron during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in June, involves the use of French military equipment and expertise. The Ukrainian soldiers, mostly newly drafted and aged between 25 and 45, are being trained on French kit including Caesar howitzers and Milan anti-tank guided-missile systems.
The training program, which involves nine weeks of intensive training, is longer than standard programs used by other European forces. The goal is to equip the Ukrainian brigade, known as “Anne of Kyiv,” with the necessary tools to effectively defend their territory. In addition to training, the French are also providing logistical support and equipment such as armoured vehicles, howitzers, air-defense systems, and anti-tank missile launchers.
The French military trainers have had to adapt the program to suit the needs of the Ukrainian soldiers, including wider trenches and more drone usage. The focus of the training is on defense, with troops being tested for resistance to fatigue and stress using simulated air strikes and grenades. Despite the challenges faced by Ukraine, including territorial losses and difficulty mobilizing fresh conscripts, the training program aims to give them the tactical advantage needed to strengthen their negotiating position in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
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