Ukraine’s defense forces are recalibrating their approach to military training, reducing the number of personnel undergoing basic military training abroad. This shift is informed by the combat experience gained during the ongoing conflict with Russia, while still maintaining collaboration with international partners.
According to Major Dmytro Lykhoviy from the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Main Communication Department, the Ukrainian military continues to receive training abroad with the support of foreign partners. This training encompasses professional development on foreign weaponry and military equipment, leadership training for commanders, and instruction for sergeants and instructors.
Looking ahead to 2026, plans are in place for basic military training exercises in three European Union countries, supported by four NATO member states. However, Lykhoviy noted that in the past two years, the volume of training conducted abroad has significantly decreased. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are enhancing both the quantity and quality of training within Ukraine, with a focus on improving safety measures at training grounds and relocating exercises to safer western regions.
The decision to adjust training locations is also attributed to better integration of combat experience into Ukrainian training centers by domestic instructors. Additionally, the Ukrainian military is aligning its training with the legal and regulatory frameworks of various EU and NATO countries.
Lykhoviy emphasized that conducting training in Ukraine allows for intensive use of drones, electronic warfare systems, night shooting exercises, and psychological resilience training without the complications of logistics that come with overseas training.
While there are undeniable advantages to training abroad—such as access to high-quality training facilities, uninterrupted training sessions, and skilled instructors—the Ukrainian military is increasingly capable of meeting its training needs independently. This capability is enhanced by adapting to the demands of modern, high-tech warfare, particularly with the growing use of unmanned systems and leveraging invaluable combat experience.
Furthermore, the Ukrainian General Staff has noted a clustering and optimization of training for military personnel abroad. Specific partner countries have been identified that specialize in various aspects of military training, including leadership and technical training. Some partner nations are reallocating their resources to train Ukrainian soldiers in third countries, which promotes more efficient use of financial and material resources.
Ukraine's military is shifting its training strategy, focusing more on domestic training while still collaborating with international partners. This change reflects lessons learned from ongoing conflict and aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of military preparedness.