Russian authorities are systematically involving children in the design and testing of drones used in the war in Ukraine, according to an investigation by the exiled Russian news outlet, the Insider. The investigation revealed that nationwide competitions, starting with video games like "Berloga," identify talented students who are then recruited by defense companies. Teenagers involved confirmed their participation in modeling drone components, often concealing the military applications under the guise of civilian projects. One teenager stated, “We were forbidden to say that it was needed for the war, and we invented civilian applications.”

The program progresses through competitions like "Big Challenges," leading to recruitment by companies often under international sanctions. The Insider interviewed three teenage finalists working on drone technology who detailed their awareness of the military applications but were encouraged to hide this involvement. Children are also reportedly involved in the production of larger drones, including the Geran-2 kamikaze drone, as shown in a Russian army television documentary. Footage from the documentary showed teenagers working at the Alabuga factory in Tatarstan, a facility producing Geran-2 drones and subject to EU sanctions.

Employing children in military facilities violates numerous international conventions. The investigation highlights Russia’s use of "patriotic" and militarized education to draw youth into the war effort in Ukraine.

Impact Statement: The use of children in the Russian military-industrial complex raises serious ethical and legal concerns, violating international conventions and potentially exposing children to harm.