Combining Combat Experience and Modern Technologies in the 7th Rapid Reaction Corps of the Air Assault Forces

The 7th Rapid Reaction Corps of the Air Assault Forces is at the forefront of military training, where the integration of combat experience with modern technologies is paramount. This approach aims to provide soldiers with a significant intellectual advantage over their adversaries. In an exclusive interview with NV, Colonel Serhiy Chuchula, known by his call sign 'Bolgard', elaborated on the training methodologies employed within the corps.

Colonel Chuchula highlighted that although the 7th Rapid Reaction Corps was established amid a large-scale war, Ukrainian paratroopers carry with them decades of experience. He emphasized the importance of evolving old traditions to meet contemporary challenges. 'The Air Assault Forces are a unique branch of the military that has always been, and will continue to be, the elite of the Armed Forces,' he stated. He noted that the 25th Separate Air Assault Brigade remains unique within the military, being the only brigade capable of parachuting in its entirety from the air, although current realities limit the deployment of all equipment.

Chuchula explained that the identity of the Air Assault Forces is deeply rooted in combat traditions cultivated since Ukraine's independence and throughout the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war, as well as through participation in international missions. 'As we gain experience in battles, the traditions of the Air Assault Forces, our 7th Corps, and each individual unit grow stronger. This allows servicemen to take pride in their service in the Air Assault Forces and in wearing the maroon beret,' he added.

Maintaining high standards and successfully executing a wide range of combat tasks is made possible by the first-class training provided, which closely simulates combat conditions and prepares soldiers for all challenges they may face.

When asked about the training process, Colonel Chuchula explained that after completing basic military training—which is already enhanced and considered the best in the military—new recruits undergo adaptation within their brigades. This adaptation lasts between 5 to 14 days, during which the primary goal is for personnel to acclimate to their unit and the specific conditions of the terrain where they will conduct combat operations. For instance, four parachute battalions within a brigade may operate simultaneously in four different areas.

The adaptation program in the 7th Corps is highly flexible, evolving according to the needs of the units at each specific stage and direction. Continuous analysis of actions taken is conducted with battalion commanders, focusing on the application of modern technologies and identifying key areas for emphasis during training.

Key components of the adaptation process include essential subjects of combat training such as tactical medicine, tactical preparation, fire training, and engineering training. A significant focus is currently placed on countering drones, as soldiers must always be prepared to engage with FPV or other enemy drones without compromising their mission to inflict maximum damage and successfully complete combat tasks.

Colonel Chuchula elaborated on the necessity of adaptation within brigades following basic training. 'Upon arriving at their units, soldiers face specific challenges related to executing combat tasks. Additionally, personnel must bond with their new unit, as they transition from their initial training group to different battalions, forming a new family,' he explained.

Commanders at all levels must also adapt to their subordinates, assessing their capabilities and planning tasks that align with their strengths to ensure that everyone operates as a cohesive team. 'In the 25th Separate Air Assault Brigade, all commanders are well-placed, and our group of instructors consists of paratroopers with extensive combat experience who continuously enhance their qualifications,' Chuchula noted.

The colonel emphasized the importance of individual assessment during training, stating that many recruits arrive with aspirations to work as drone pilots. However, they must first undergo a selection process where instructors evaluate their suitability for the role. 'Not everyone can easily master the control of an FPV drone and become a professional pilot in the 25th Brigade,' he remarked.

For those who do not fit the role of a drone pilot, alternative paths are offered, such as working with ground robotic complexes, engineering munitions, or in repair workshops. This tailored approach allows for the optimal utilization of each soldier's abilities.

The 7th Corps emphasizes its identity as a 'tech parachute unit.' Colonel Chuchula discussed how modern technologies, such as VR simulators, interactive systems, and other innovations, are transforming the training of paratroopers. 'We have made significant advancements in technological development. Each brigade in the 7th Corps is equipped with a wide range of interactive simulators that utilize VR goggles and sound simulations, enabling us to recreate scenarios in virtual reality that are not feasible in traditional training areas,' he explained.

One of the key aspects of professional training is that conducting actual live-fire exercises with combat missiles for training purposes is often impractical. To conserve munitions needed at the front, simulators allow for the modeling of launches that closely resemble real-life conditions, whether it be with Stinger MANPADS or Javelin anti-tank systems. Moreover, training simulators provide a vast array of opportunities to practice different scenarios, allowing paratroopers to gain valuable experience without risking their lives.