Kazakhstan's military launches 80,000 drills in record training push
Kazakhstan's armed forces have launched an intensive training programme for the new academic year. The initiative includes over 80,000 activities, from live-fire drills to international competitions. Among the highlights is the participation of Kazakhstani service members in the Army International Games, where they will compete in the Sniper Battalion event.
The training programme began with unannounced combat readiness drills, testing newly conscripted soldiers for the first time. These exercises assessed their ability to respond to alerts, regroup quickly, and carry out live-fire manoeuvres—including nighttime operations.
Key exercises such as *Aibal*, *Beket*, and *Aibalt* will involve multiple military branches. They aim to evaluate annual training progress while refining new tactical approaches. Specialised training will focus on snipers, UAV operators, and tactical marksmanship, ensuring troops adapt to modern combat demands. The drills will also test alert systems, headquarters coordination, and unit deployment speeds. COVID-19 countermeasures remain integrated into operations, with protocols for potential outbreak scenarios. Inspections will continue without warning, pushing troops to maintain high readiness standards. Beyond domestic training, Kazakhstani personnel will join the *Army International Games*, showcasing their skills in the *Sniper Battalion* competition. The broader programme seeks to strengthen professional growth, command cohesion, and overall troop preparedness.
The initiative marks a significant expansion of Kazakhstan's military training efforts. With over 80,000 planned activities, the programme will sharpen tactical skills, improve response times, and reinforce pandemic-era protocols. The results will shape the country's defence capabilities in the coming year.