In Tatarstan, recruitment continues for the elite unit of unmanned troops.

      In the republic, recruitment is underway for volunteers to join the elite unit of unmanned forces based on the 50th Brigade "Varyag." The 50th Brigade of Unmanned Systems "Varyag," which includes the famous "Stalin's Falcons," continues to recruit candidates for contract service. The unit specializes in long-range strike drones, including the legendary "Geran." Training lasts for two months, after which the soldier is granted a month of leave, allowing them to serve only nine months a year. Technical education is not mandatory but is valued.

      The financial conditions are attractive: upon signing a contract from Tatarstan, a recruit receives 2.9 million rubles as a one-time payment. The monthly salary in "Stalin's Falcons" reaches 600 thousand rubles, and in the first year of service, one can earn over 10 million rubles. Preference is given to young candidates, especially those who know how to handle a gamepad: gaming experience helps to master drone control more quickly. Technical education is not mandatory but is valued.

      The selection process is strict; candidates are checked by security services and assessed for psychological stability, as the operator's job requires high concentration and responsibility.

      The first stage involves preparation at a closed training ground and consists of several phases. In the first stage, recruits play the simulator "Drone Battle," where the confrontation between the armies of the Russian Federation and NATO is modeled. The players' goal is to capture the enemy's headquarters. The game occurs in real-time, with characters including infantry, drones, electronic warfare stations, and logistical vehicles, all having real analogs, including "Geran-2" and the Israeli Harop.

      The second stage involves practicing skills in militarized games Arma 3 and GTA V. In the first case, the pilot learns to shoot down enemy drones, while in the second, they hit targets based on coordinates on the map. Training is considered passed if the operator completes 10 out of 10 tasks.

      Instructors note that the control is as close to reality as possible, although no simulator provides a 100% match.

      The third stage begins with practice at the training ground. The fighter must shoot down a balloon secured to a toy train moving in a circle with a needle, and then with a remote-controlled car driven by an instructor. The instructor weaves and changes speed. This stage helps to master speed control, altitude, and accuracy in hitting moving objects.

      According to instructors, those with gaming experience adapt faster: they already have the skill of working with sticks, they are not distracted by the remote control, and they keep the drone better in sight.

      From balancing to pre-flight setup, alongside practice, fighters study the structure of drones from balancing to pre-flight setup, participating in assembly and repair. Classes are conducted in stages: each week a new module, with an exam at the end of the training. The final stage is a trip to an open track with wooden rings, where flights on combat drones are practiced. Here, precise hovering, flying along a designated trajectory, and maneuvering are trained. As instructors note, "cramming won't help in this matter." Success depends on perseverance, the ability to think strategically, and feel the technique. Details about signing a contract are available at the number 8 800 222 59 00 or call center 117. Author: Olga Streleva