From February 3 to 16, 2026, the 7th International Training Camp of the Tiger Squad took place in the Penza Region. Representatives of the Sapphire Youth Law Enforcement Unit (YLEU) of the Belarusian National Technical University and the Bastion Youth Law Enforcement Unit of Polesie State University also participated.
For nearly two weeks, the participants lived in soldier-like conditions: building their endurance, practicing shooting, and mastering tactical medicine. In addition to the training program, a variety of leisure activities were organized for the participants. They visited landmarks in the Penza Region and socialized at discos and theme parties.
"The regimen is quite strict, but all of this only builds endurance and discipline. All the members of the Tiger Squad are very kind and cheerful; I quickly found common ground with many of them, and I'd like to keep in touch with some of them even after the camp ends." "I liked Penza itself, an interesting and beautiful city with its own history," noted Ulyana Aksenchik, a BNTU student and commander of the "Sapphire" MOOP of the BRSM Faculty of Mining and Environmental Engineering.
On the final day of the training camp, the fighters met with Penza Region Governor Oleg Melnichenko. He spoke with the students and presented each with a letter of thanks.
"I express my sincere gratitude for achieving high results in military-sports training and for your commitment to acquiring new knowledge, skills, and abilities, demonstrated during the 7th International Training Camp of the Tiger Police Assistance Squad in the Penza Region of the Russian Federation from February 3 to 16, 2026. May your inherent determination, responsible, and active civic stance continue to contribute to new successes in patriotic public service," the governor noted in his letter.
Upon arriving in Minsk, the guys talked about what they enjoyed most about the training camp, what surprised them, and shared their impressions.
"We felt an atmosphere of mutual support and friendship among the units. When we arrived, we were immediately captivated by the conversation. Everyone was interested in talking with Belarusians, learning about our traditions, and how we live. Many commented on our endurance, physical fitness, and activity."
"What new knowledge and skills did you acquire during the training camp?"
"We had useful practical training in hand-to-hand combat and self-defense. Our first shooting at the range and at the camp was something new and interesting. It was immediately scary and unusual. We interacted with active military personnel, who shared their experiences and advised us on how to move in different positions during training sessions. The variety of activities was also surprising. We learned how to load magazines, provide first aid, and put on uniforms. The organizers explained everything to us down to the last detail."
Communicating with peers who found themselves in similar circumstances, the Sapphire soldiers didn't experience any particular difficulties adapting. Getting used to the army routine and adhering to the ban on smartphones proved a bit challenging at first, but the soldiers settled in and soon fully integrated into everyday soldier life.
"What was the most memorable moment of the training camp?"
"We visited the underground military training camp. I was very surprised to see that it had almost all the necessary amenities: a gym, bathrooms, showers, a classroom, a laundry room, and a large barracks. It was all built by the military, and such a system is impressive," shared Denis Syrets, a member of the Sapphire MOOP.
"A member of the special rapid response unit gave me a chevron that will remind me of the time I spent there," added Alexey Sukhalet, commander of the Sapphire MOOP, BRSM, with the rights of the BNTU RK.
The camp filled the kids with enthusiasm. They learned to be more resilient, overcoming obstacles and even solving life's problems. When asked, "Would you do this again?" the kids answered unequivocally, "Yes!"
"Why is being a member of a youth law enforcement squad so cool?"
"It's a great opportunity to overcome your inner fears. Furthermore, the experience gained at the youth law enforcement squad provides a foundation for future work, if you want to work in law enforcement or the military," the kids noted.
We thank the kids for their comments, we are proud of their fortitude, and we wish them continued success in the ranks of the youth law enforcement squad.
