The largest group of volunteers during the war: how women undergo basic training.

According to ТСН: The number of women joining the military continues to grow. In the 118th mechanized brigade, 12 volunteers are undergoing training — this is the largest group since the war began.

TSN correspondent visited the zero day of Basic General Military Training (BGMT).

Transformation: from civilian life to military stress

After the first formation, the newcomers were immediately immersed in a stressful situation: a 500-meter distance, accompanied by shouts, explosions, simulations of FPV attacks, and smoke.

“Hleb”, instructor of the 118th OMB: “We need to get them out of that state of equilibrium so that they enter a stressful situation and understand how to behave. In these 50 days, we have to give them the basic foundation so they understand what a weapon is, how to handle it, how to conduct tactical actions, and how to dress properly.”

These trials proved to be difficult. One of the girls felt unwell due to the smoke and left the distance.

The servicewomen shared their impressions

Servicewoman Katerina from Odesa, who left her family business and her store, admitted that she did not expect such a start:

Katerina, servicewoman of the 118th OMB: “I thought it would be like the first day of adaptation — we would get to know each other, we would be told what we have to do here, but I did not expect it to be like this right away.”

Now Katerina is learning to operate drones:

“It’s much easier to learn to fly the ‘Maviks’ than the ‘FPVs’. I tried on the simulator with the ‘FPVs’ — it’s completely different; you have to maintain balance because they are thrown around, while the ‘Mavik’ is lighter.”

19-year-old Sofia, who joined the military following her father's example, commented on her feelings:

“Karma”, servicewoman of the 118th OMB: “Honestly, it’s very difficult, but everything is possible. I feel unwell, but I believe — everything will be fine.”

A fighter with the nickname “Disney”, who was a volunteer before this, is preparing to work in the psychological support team. She acknowledged that she is ready for stress, but the physical load was heavy:

“Disney”, servicewoman of the 118th OMB: “No drones or explosions scared me, but it was physically challenging to pass this march. It was a bit difficult. We, girls — in armor, with backpacks, guns — it was a bit hard.”

Instructors are satisfied with the progress of the girls:

“The girls are trying; they did not join the army to show off; they came to work on level with the boys and defend our country.”

Ahead of the volunteers are still 50 days of BGMT, which are meant to improve their physical and moral endurance.

▶ You can watch on TSN’s YouTube channel by following this link: WOMEN AT BGMT! BRIGADES are actively involving GIRLS in SERVICE

This training process is an important step in forming a new generation of Ukrainian women servicemen. Their readiness to take on challenges and work at the same level as men indicates a change in social habits and roles in modern society. The implementation of such initiatives not only strengthens the army but also demonstrates a strong will to defend the homeland.