How Russia’s Shahed Drone Producer Uses Video Games to Recruit the Next Generation

July 11, 2026 - 17:45

Russia's Alabuga Special Economic Zone, a key site for producing Shahed drones used in the war against Ukraine, has launched a video game to recruit teenagers and young adults for drone manufacturing and piloting roles. The game, called "Drone Battle: Ukraine," is designed to attract students from technical schools and universities, offering them a path to work at the facility.

The game simulates drone combat scenarios, often depicting attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and military targets. Players who perform well are contacted by recruiters and offered jobs at the Alabuga plant, where they can earn higher-than-average wages for the region. The recruitment drive targets young people aged 14 to 25, with some positions available to minors with parental consent.

Critics argue that the game glorifies violence and manipulates young people into supporting a war effort they may not fully understand. Human rights groups have raised concerns about the ethical implications of using entertainment to recruit for military production, especially given the high casualty rates among drone operators in the conflict.

Alabuga officials defend the program as a patriotic initiative that provides stable employment and technical skills. They claim the game is a modern way to engage with youth who are already interested in technology and gaming. The facility has ramped up production of Shahed drones since the invasion began, and the recruitment game is part of a broader effort to meet labor shortages caused by the war and Western sanctions.

The game is available on Russian app stores and social media platforms, with promotional materials highlighting the chance to "become part of history." As of now, there is no indication that the game has been banned or restricted by Russian authorities.