The Head of State heard reports on the organisational and personnel structure of the Armed Forces, as well as the deployment of the brigade, and the fulfilment of the state programme on military camps. He also received information on the organisation of combat training sessions using modern computerised simulators. The President is keen to learn about the effectiveness of personnel training using simulators. According to Belarus’ Defence Minister, Andrey Ravkov, this is proving truly effective and reduces the cost of personnel training.
Mr. Lukashenko examined the combat glory room, where the history of the 120th independent mechanised brigade is recorded. He left a note in the guest book, to encourage the brigade to live up to the glorious deeds performed by past comrades. “The people of Belarus has entrusted us with security, peace and tranquillity on Belarusian land,” noted the Belarusian President. “You must justify this trust, through your military service in the name of the Fatherland’s prosperity.”
The Head of State visited barracks to learn about the living standards available to military personnel now that quarters have been repaired, offering better conditions.
Changing his itinerary at the last moment, Mr. Lukashenko went to the canteen for enlisted personnel, where he examined conditions and food, and then moved on to survey the medical division of the brigade.
At the firing range, the President saw military hardware in action, as well as combat uniforms and firearms coming into service for Belarusian mechanised brigades. Mr. Lukashenko also examined the combat characteristics of pistols and other firearms currently in use, and those from the days of the Civil War and the Great Patriotic War. He viewed modern Belarus-made optical products, which allow marksmanship under any light conditions and military personnel demonstrated tactical shooting using Belarus-made optical sights. A souvenir was then presented to Mr. Lukashenko, as a token of remembrance.
Mr. Lukashenko was once deputy squadron commander of political issues with the 120th Rogachev guards motors rifle, Suvorov and Kutuzov Orders of the Red Banner, division (named after the BSSR Supreme Council). The division has since been reformed as an independent mechanised brigade.
By Vasily Kharitonov
