Almost 750 students enrolled in this year's voluntary military training for high school students at a total of eight training sites across the Czech Republic. The original capacity of the training was set at 510 participants, but after a week of registration, it was completely filled, so the capacity was eventually increased. The first few days were hectic and demanding for the high school students. Some of them decided to quit the training on the first day. For most, however, after settling into their accommodations and receiving their equipment, the daily drill began. In addition to getting up early in the morning, regular warm-ups, and drill practice, they began to study basic regulations, field tactics, marksmanship, safe weapon handling, and shooting theory. Our editorial team took part in training with the 72nd Mechanized and the 102nd Reconnaissance Battalion.

Video: Voluntary military training 2025 with the 72nd Mechanized and 102nd Reconnaissance Battalions / CZ DEFENCE

Because interest in the training ultimately exceeded the original capacity, another training site was opened at the Training Command Headquarters of the Military Academy in Vyškov, where 229 students enrolled. Nearly 100 high school students joined the 42nd Mechanized Battalion in Tábor. Almost 80 participants then trained with the 72nd Mechanized Battalion in Přáslavice, which conducted training in cooperation with the 102nd Reconnaissance Battalion. The training of high school students also continued with the 13th Artillery Battalion and the 43rd Airborne Regiment. Other units each had around 60 participants.

The conditions for participation in the training were age between 18 and 22 and enrollment in secondary school. Students who completed the training received CZK 33,000 net. The program included the basics of military tactics, drill training, engineering and topographical training, a first aid course, small arms shooting, and grenade throwing.

Voluntary military training is part of a broader strategy of the Czech Ministry of Defense, which aims to strengthen the country's defense capabilities while offering young people opportunities for personal development. The voluntary military training was also beneficial for the training instructors. Military psychologists were present throughout the training to support the instructors and to explain to participants, using examples, that mental resilience is just as important as physical strength.

During field exercises, participants used either blank ammunition or special ammunition when shooting at targets. Both men and women took part in the voluntary military training, with women making up a fifth of the participants. Everyone trained together but were accommodated separately. They were woken up at around 5 a.m. and had to be in their barracks by 10 p.m.

The training was concluded in all training areas with a two-day survival exercise in the field. As part of voluntary military training, students gained valuable experience that can be used both in civilian life and in possible professional military careers. High school students who successfully completed the training then took a solemn oath in the garrison town of their unit.