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Australian Army soldiers have begun training their third rotation of Ukrainian recruits during Operation Kudu in the United Kingdom.
Recruits undergo five weeks’ worth of drilling by Australian Army instructors in weapon handling and firing, rural and urban fighting, trench warfare and medical survival skills.
There are also early wake-up calls and uniform checks for the former Ukrainian university students and everyday employees.
“From the first time they picked up a weapon, their commitment was obvious,” one of the Australian platoon commanders said.
“They are eager to learn.”
During one week, recruits learn the basics of how to assemble their field pack and are trained in the complexities of rifle, grenade and anti-armour weapon systems.
Recruits are also taught patrol skills and formations, as well as undertaking weight-loaded marches.
“What has surprised me is how quickly the soldiers have learnt skills,” an Australian Army instructor said.
“I reckon they are performing much better than we were one week into Kapooka. They are already strong teams and are keen to perfect their drills.”
This contingent of Australian Army instructors is the second rotation to deploy on Operation Kudu.
“When I heard I was deploying on Operation Kudu, I was very proud,” one Australian officer deployed on Operation Kudu said.
“It’s a mission that I believe in wholeheartedly. Operation Kudu is something that’s really important to myself and every member of the contingent.
“We all believe in the mission. We all believe in providing the best training we can to the Ukrainians.”
Robert Dougherty
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