Young people train in drone reconnaissance camp in Kuldīga

Twenty-seven young people learned drone operation, aerial observation and camouflage at a camp in Dzeldа, Kuldīga Municipality, LSM reported. The camp was organised by the Jaunsardze Centre as one of the summer camps for students studying state defence education.

On one of the final tasks, teams of three had to observe a designated area and an opposing force from the air without being detected in the forest. Each team consisted of a pilot, a navigator and a person responsible for launching and catching the drone.

Instructors acting as the opposing force behaved provocatively, made noise and fired. The observers had to record precise information about the opponent, including their appearance, actions and location.

“Our strategy at the moment is not to fly directly above the target. We try to stay at the edge, above the treetops, so it is harder for the enemy to spot us. Of course, we also keep to the maximum permitted altitude of 120 metres so that the drone’s sound is less noticeable,” said camp participant Renārs Senkāns from the Pierīga region.

Participants said they had joined the camp for various reasons, including the geopolitical situation. Riga resident Sofija Semjonova said she had learned how to operate a drone, conceal herself from aerial observation, launch a drone from the forest and return without being detected.

“I had previous experience with drones through the Jaunsardze programme. I wanted to strengthen my knowledge and learn something new, especially more about tactics, how to launch a drone, conduct reconnaissance and observe,” said Riga resident Amanda Amare.

The camp covered drone construction, aeronautics, the basics of meteorology, airspace classification and various regulations. Particular attention was paid to practical skills. Participants were also due to take a test covering the theory and complete a practical test.