Russian school in London teaches pupils how to fly combat drones

"A Russian embassy school in London reportedly teaches its students how to operate combat drones, among other military activities. Located in Notting Hill, the large white Victorian building serves as a school for around 60 pupils up to the age of 18, who are often children of diplomats, Russian nationals and even suspected spies. Overseen by Russia's foreign ministry, the 2024/2025 curriculum for year 10 students reportedly included an hour-long lesson on basics of technical preparation and communications of combat drones, according to The Times."

"Forming part of a course reportedly called Fundamentals of Security and Protection of the Motherland, abbreviated OBZR, the teachings also include a number of other classes connected to military activities. The outlet claims classes included battlefield first-aid, as well as how students can protect themselves against chemical, biological and radiological weapons. Ever since Russia's invasion of Ukraine four years ago this month, the country has shifted its education system toward a more patriotic and militarised agenda."

"According to The Times, the OBZR curriculum taught to students at the London embassy school also explains how to assemble Kalashnikovs and goes so far as to practise throwing grenades with tennis balls, firing weapons, and building trenches. The curriculum also states the importance of pupils aged 15 to 17 learning the methods of combat use of unmanned autonomous vehicles and robotic systems."

A Russian embassy school in Notting Hill, London, serves about 60 pupils up to age 18, including children of diplomats, Russian nationals, and suspected spies. The school is overseen by Russia's foreign ministry. Year 10 curriculum included an hour-long lesson on technical preparation and communications of combat drones as part of Fundamentals of Security and Protection of the Motherland (OBZR). The OBZR course also covers battlefield first aid, protection against chemical, biological and radiological weapons, weapons assembly, grenade-throwing practice with tennis balls, firing weapons, and building trenches. Pupils aged 15–17 are taught combat use methods for unmanned autonomous vehicles and robotic systems. Drone instruction mirrors battlefield trends as drones play an expanding role in the ongoing war.

Read at www.standard.co.uk