SIMFEROPOL, September 25. /TASS/. Demand for the training of technicians supporting operations of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has surpassed the need for UAV operators’ training in Russia, Mikhail Filippov, the founder and head of the all-Russian Archangel project for UAV pilot training and unmanned technology development, told TASS.

"Strange as it may seem, we are currently training more technicians than operators. Guys over 35 are currently engaged in soldering, assembly, and UAV firmware upgrading. The development of technical capabilities is driven by the fact that every unit is now organizing its own UAV technical workshop. The people responsible for the 'flying' units' technical support should be on the staff. There are teams of technicians directly responsible for UAVs preparation for sorties," he said.

Technicians are engaged in the repair, assembly, and configuration of various drone models, and adjusting communication parameters in accordance with different combat missions in various terrains and topographical conditions.

"They, so to speak, represent a link in the chain between the manufacturer and operator. Actually, any manufacturer seeks to make its products as effective as possible, to participate in the development of frontline workshops that carry out maintenance round the clock. As the troops must immediately know how to operate equipment they are receiving. Should a problem arise, they must find a solution as quickly as possible," the expert added.

The Archangel project has been run by a group of enthusiasts since 2022. The project’s centers are located in different cities, with overall coordination carried out from Moscow, Crimea, and the Zaporozhye Region.