Everything a foreigner needs to know to become a soldier in the Russian Armed Forces

[Yankee-stani]

To put it simple: you'll need to be a good and strong person with no legal issues back home.




In 2015, Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a decree allowing any foreign citizens to join the country’s Armed Forces.

So, If you’re itching to start running with a brand new AK-12 in notorious Ratnik-2 battle gear, here’s what you need to know and what you need to do.

Passport
Since 2015, you DON’T need a Russian passport to join Russia’s military - any citizenship will work for you.

Age
In order to become a soldier in Russia you have to be at least 18 and not older than 30 years old.

Gender
The Russian Armed Forces welcomes both men and women. Yet, no woman will be running on a battlefield with an AK-12 in her hands. Every woman who's willing to become a soldier is welcome, but only for work assigned to military headquarters or as a nurse.

It’s worth mentioning that it doesn't matter what kind of jobs women end up being assigned to, they will also have to pass all sorts of military training - including running, shooting and learning battle tactics. They are, however, basic courses, which every soldier needs to know.

Vitaliy Nevar/TASS
Language
If you wish to become a “badass” with an AK-12, you’ll have to train hard and follow your instructors’ every command.

In order to do so, you MUST speak Russian. You'll have to pass a Russian language test to evaluate if it is possible for you to serve in the Russian Armed Forces. They take this issue very seriously, so be aware that you will have to seriously prepare for yourRussian language test.

Legal Issues
This is another very important issue for anyone wanting to join the military. The Russian Armed Forces doesn't accept in its ranks former convicts and people involved in criminal or any other jurisdictional investigations.

The bottom line is - only good guys with good relations with their governments are welcomed into Russia’s military.

Russian citizenship
If you're willing to become a Russian citizen, joining the military is also an option for you, because after five years of service, you are eligible to get the country's passport.

Yuri Belinsky/TASS
Contract
Your first contract with the Russian Armed Forces is signed for FIVE years. So, for this period of life, you won’t have to worry about a job, money or medical care (yes, every soldier and HIS/HER FAMILY in Russia has health insurance and is taken care of).

What rank can I reach?
Foreigners will serve on positions of privates, corporals, sergeants and sergeant-majors. In all honesty, you won’t become a general or an admiral in Russia.

Money
The minimum wage of a private is around 30,000 rubles ($480). Wages usually depend on the type of your military unit and your region of service.

For example, people defending Russia in the North get more than those serving in the Moscow region.

A place to live
As long as you serve in the Russian Armed Forces, you and your family will be living in a military town located close to your base. You will receive an apartment, if you are bringing a family, or a room, if you’re single.

Getting YOUR OWN place for living
After three years of service, you’re able to join a 20-year-long military mortgage program. Simply put - as long as you serve in the Russian Armed Forces, the government will pay your mortgage and in time you get yourself your own apartment in Russia.

Can I join the FSB?
No. Foreigners can’t join services engaged with information of national importance, intelligence and secret service issues.

Will I be fighting wars for Russia?
Yes, you will.

There are no exclusions for foreign soldiers in the Russian Armed Forces in a case of war - these people WILL join the ranks.

How do I sign up?
In order to sign up for the Russian Armed Forces, you have to go to an enlistment office in any Russian city. And if your documents and paperwork are good and you have no legal issues back home, you’ll sign a contract, proceed through a medical exam, pass psychological tests and will then be sent to a military unit best suited for a person with your skills and qualifications.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.
https://www.rbth.com/science-and-tech/331042-how-to-join-russian-army

 

[war&peace]

That's interesting. But Russia has a large population though a very low population density. But why is Russia doing so? Do they have declining population. I remember UK took the similar initiative a year or so back.

 

[Yankee-stani]

That's interesting. But Russia has a large population though a very low population density. But why is Russia doing so? Do they have declining population. I remember UK took the similar initiative a year or so back.

Most soilders from abroad come ex Soviet states

 

[war&peace]

Most soilders from abroad come ex Soviet states

ex-Soviet states is okay because they can speak Russian and have some familiarity with Russian culture etc but for example a person from Madagascar or Chilli has no much in common.

 

[B.K.N]

Most soilders from abroad come ex Soviet states

You mean they recruit only from ex Soviet countries Pakistanis can't join

 

[Yankee-stani]

You mean they recruit only from ex Soviet countries Pakistanis can't join

No I said majority or bulk come from those ex Soviet States

ex-Soviet states is okay because they can speak Russian and have some familiarity with Russian culture etc but for example a person from Madagascar or Chilli has no much in common.

Yeah pretty much

 

[TheNoob]

Language is an issue?

Try the French Foreign Legion, or the Spanish Foreign Legion.
Although, pay and legal protection is better in France than in Spain.


Both have 5 years, they also don't care much for your language proficiency.
As long as you are able to pass the training phase and earn your white kepi.

After 5 years of just marching and showing face, you are eligible for a french passport and residency.

Your background is (as long as its clean) irrelevant, so doesn't matter whether your a **** or an indian.


Also, you'll rarely get to see combat, since these countries don't trust much in foreigners.
So basically, you're either cannon fodder in case of war, or you're just someone they can show the world as some sort of a trophy.

Personally.
5 years is pretty good.
I'd join if my teeth weren't fucked up.

172,000 Euros for 5 years of doing nothing but following orders seem like an easy life. (if you pass the training, that is)

 

[Damir877]

Language is an issue?

Try the French Foreign Legion, or the Spanish Foreign Legion.
Although, pay and legal protection is better in France than in Spain.


Both have 5 years, they also don't care much for your language proficiency.
As long as you are able to pass the training phase and earn your white kepi.

After 5 years of just marching and showing face, you are eligible for a french passport and residency.

Your background is (as long as its clean) irrelevant, so doesn't matter whether your a **** or an indian.


Also, you'll rarely get to see combat, since these countries don't trust much in foreigners.
So basically, you're either cannon fodder in case of war, or you're just someone they can show the world as some sort of a trophy.

Personally.
5 years is pretty good.
I'd join if my teeth weren't fucked up.

172,000 Euros for 5 years of doing nothing but following orders seem like an easy life. (if you pass the training, that is)

Lol you really think life in Legion is an easy life?Who do you think is fighting and getting killed in Mali or wherever the French government is sending people these days.Not to mention they have deaths in training on much larger scale than in regular French army units.
As far as them "not caring"about your language proficiency,that is right as long as you are fast learner if you are not...well for you own sake you better become one.
If you are admitted you will almost for sure take part in combat,since I have yet to hear or read from any ex legionnaire that he spent 5 years there without ever being involved in combat operations.

 

[TheNoob]

Lol you really think life in Legion is an easy life?Who do you think is fighting and getting killed in Mali or wherever the French government is sending people these days.Not to mention they have deaths in training on much larger scale than in regular French army units.
As far as them "not caring"about your language proficiency,that is right as long as you are fast learner if you are not...well for you own sake you better become one.
If you are admitted you will almost for sure take part in combat,since I have yet to hear or read from any ex legionnaire that he spent 5 years there without ever being involved in combat operations.

Bruh.
Life in the military is easy.
Now that line of thought is relative.

Second, Only the 2nd Parachute regiment was deployed in Mali for a more political reason.
Despite an inexperienced regiment, it was the most experienced out of them all.

All in all, there aint much.
chances for you to see combat is next to nothing.
And even if you do see it, I guess... live it then?

5 years is a long time, it happens.
And if it does, who's to blame you for signing up? Lol


So yes, rather easier for me.

Second, plenty of ex-legionnaire communities out there on the internet.
if you haven't seen or read.
That's on you bro.

 

[Damir877]

Bruh.
Life in the military is easy.
Now that line of thought is relative.

Second, Only the 2nd Parachute regiment was deployed in Mali for a more political reason.
Despite an inexperienced regiment, it was the most experienced out of them all.

All in all, there aint much.
chances for you to see combat is next to nothing.
And even if you do see it, I guess... live it then?

5 years is a long time, it happens.
And if it does, who's to blame you for signing up? Lol


So yes, rather easier for me.

Second, plenty of ex-legionnaire communities out there on the internet.
if you haven't seen or read.
That's on you bro.

Lol you really have no clue what the heck are you talking about do you?What do you mean by 2REP being "sent for a political reason".Those are not diplomats but some of the best trained soldiers,they don't go anywhere to negotiate with anyone but to get the job done(to kill).

By the way 2 REP were not the only unit in Mali and Central Africa,2 REI and several other smaller units from different regiments were also involved.

Thanks for the recommendation to check internet forums but I will pass.I have read quite a lot about them and also have met and talked in person not only with former legionnaires but with active ones as well.You know what they all had in common,not a single one said that that life in FFL was easy,quite the contrary.

But you go ahead fix your teeth and go to France,since you think it's that easy go and have a great time,take some easy money and French citizenship while you just sit in the barracks doing nothing and especially not taking part in combat in Afghanistan,Africa,South America and other fun places,that is if they accept you.See how that works for you,"bro".

 

[TheNoob]

Lol you really have no clue what the heck are you talking about do you?What do you mean by 2REP being "sent for a political reason".Those are not diplomats but some of the best trained soldiers,they don't go anywhere to negotiate with anyone but to get the job done(to kill).

By the way 2 REP were not the only unit in Mali and Central Africa,2 REI and several other smaller units from different regiments were also involved.

Thanks for the recommendation to check internet forums but I will pass.I have read quite a lot about them and also have met and talked in person not only with former legionnaires but with active ones as well.You know what they all had in common,not a single one said that that life in FFL was easy,quite the contrary.

But you go ahead fix your teeth and go to France,since you think it's that easy go and have a great time,take some easy money and French citizenship while you just sit in the barracks doing nothing and especially not taking part in combat in Afghanistan,Africa,South America and other fun places,that is if they accept you.See how that works for you,"bro".

I think its you who have no idea about what I'm saying.
Do you really think French people will spill their own blood for some random african country? No.
That's the political reason.

To make a meaingful presence without stepping over anyones sentiment.

No life in military is easy.
And as I said, It is relative.

What you think is not the same for me.
And it isn't because I've been there and done that.

Second, I don't know how I hit that nerve of yours.
As I said, Military life is easy. That's a relative, subject term.

Someone of your background might not find it easy, maybe you find some corporate life easier.
Or some restaurant life.

I've practically lived in a more ACTIVE lifestyle and did nothing but follow rules and regulation. (I've been in a boarding school for most part of my education days, some might not agree to that life)
So for me, no matter what military, I think the life in it is just easier.
Drills, Rules, Orders.

I never said I'd get accepted nor it was easy.
All I said was, that military life is just easy and there are some benefits you will have if you decide to stay on it.
Be it life threatening combat or not, it just comes with the job in FFL.

Now it is your issue if you think that FFL is deployed everywhere around the world, not mine.
Again, I'm sorry if I hit your nerve. That was clearly not my intention.

"bro"


And if my dental health was upto the par.
I'd be in a military, or have given FFL a try at least once in my life.
But sadly, they all prefer natural conditions.

 

[Vergennes]

I think its you who have no idea about what I'm saying.
Do you really think French people will spill their own blood for some random african country? No.
That's the political reason.

You are making it sounding as if France sends the Légionnaires as cannon fodder while regular French army units stay behind. So,YES French people spill their own blood for some random African countries,those that sign up know they won't have a choice but to obey their chiefs,who themselves obey the politicians. The Légion is complementary to the French army order of battle.

Out of 30 French soldiers who lost their lives in the Sahel since 2013,3 were légionnaires while the rest were from regular French army units. The regiment that lost the most in the region since 2013 is the 511e régiment du train (511th Transportation Regiment) with 3 casualties.

Légionnaires must learn 500 French words,of course there are classes provided. Better knowledge of French will come with the time. And I don't know how being a Légionnaire seems that easy,someone has to explain me.

 

[Damir877]

I think its you who have no idea about what I'm saying.
Do you really think French people will spill their own blood for some random african country? No.
That's the political reason.

Umm,that is the whole reason of FFL's existence.See in order for the French army to go anywhere you need French parliament to approve that decision.Legion can be sent wherever without any approvals or debates.As far as "French people not spilling their blood in random african countries" regular French army soldiers have also died in both Mali in Central African republic lately,so you are wrong once again about that.

What you think is not the same for me.
And it isn't because I've been there and done that.

Second, I don't know how I hit that nerve of yours.
As I said, Military life is easy. That's a relative, subject term.

Well good for you than,having self confidence is always good.My point was just that much tougher guys than you who have been there disagreed about being easy,but maybe i was wrong,maybe those guys were not nearly as capable and tough as you are.
You didn't hit a nerve,just i find it silly when people pretend to know something they have no clue about.

Someone of your background might not find it easy, maybe you find some corporate life easier.
Or some restaurant life.

That is a good point(probably your first one in this conversation)could you please tell me more?You know,about me and my background,because you seem very knowledgeable and well informed about it.

Now it is your issue if you think that FFL is deployed everywhere around the world, not mine.

Wrong again.That isn't "my opinion".For someone who claims to visit ex legionnaire forums on the internet you should know that well,"Bro".

 

[Vergennes]

Umm,that is the whole reason of FFL's existence.See in order for the French army to go anywhere you need French parliament to approve that decision.Legion can be sent wherever without any approvals or debates.

Same goes for the rest of the French armed forces.

The President,as the chief of the armed forces,doesn't need the parliament's approval to start a war or an operation.

The government has however to inform the parliament no later than three days after the intervention started and specify its objectives. There might be a debate following but without a vote.

However after 4 months,the president needs the parliament's approval to continue it.

 

[TheNoob]

Umm,that is the whole reason of FFL's existence.See in order for the French army to go anywhere you need French parliament to approve that decision.Legion can be sent wherever without any approvals or debates.As far as "French people not spilling their blood in random african countries" regular French army soldiers have also died in both Mali in Central African republic lately,so you are wrong once again about that.

That sort of detail may vary.
Except for the ex-french colonies and minus some coalition.

Do you think France will fight someone else's war?
Because in that case, even the FFL isn't enough.

And yes, I am full aware of the reason why FFL exists.
It is not my fault your tiny mind wasn't capable enough of reasoning with my Political remark.

The remark that simply explains what you just wrote.

So at the end, you are just here trying to gain some sort of "high ground" in this conversation, despite there being none.

Well good for you than,having self confidence is always good.My point was just that much tougher guys than you who have been there disagreed about being easy,but maybe i was wrong,maybe those guys were not nearly as capable and tough as you are.
You didn't hit a nerve,just i find it silly when people pretend to know something they have no clue about.

Now then, self confidence or not, I believe it is always good to try your best, even if you fall short.
FFL is a small, yet open organization within the French Military, and thus.
The competition is well beyond anyone's imagination.

The chances of the applicant is literally 1 out of 250(Or the amount of people that apply that very selection).

Now, It is not me but you that somehow assumed I believe myself to be one of the toughest, if not the only toughest person.

So yes, given the way you've assumed things up until this point now shows that I did hit a nerve.

I do know what i'm talking about about the particular subject, minus the politics revolving around it.
I am not just assuming things.

That is a good point(probably your first one in this conversation)could you please tell me more?You know,about me and my background,because you seem very knowledgeable and well informed about it.

Unlike you, I am not assuming things about the other persons background.
I merely pointed out that you may be someone who's from a different walk of life, and thus the conflict of opinion in this particular subject came alight.

Now, if you are incapable of understanding that. Blame your lack of understanding.

Wrong again.That isn't "my opinion".For someone who claims to visit ex legionnaire forums on the internet you should know that well,"Bro".

Yes I did, because that is exactly what the individuals who served, or are serving in the Legion have said.
It is nothing but relays.

Chances are still very slim of seeing combat.
Now, again I will say the same thing.

It is nobody's fault that you believe that France is always fighting somewhere.

It maybe out of the public eye, but that is what it is.

You are making it sounding as if France sends the Légionnaires as cannon fodder while regular French army units stay behind. So,YES French people spill their own blood for some random African countries,those that sign up know they won't have a choice but to obey their chiefs,who themselves obey the politicians. The Légion is complementary to the French army order of battle.

Out of 30 French soldiers who lost their lives in the Sahel since 2013,3 were légionnaires while the rest were from regular French army units. The regiment that lost the most in the region since 2013 is the 511e régiment du train (511th Transportation Regiment) with 3 casualties.

Légionnaires must learn 500 French words,of course there are classes provided. Better knowledge of French will come with the time. And I don't know how being a Légionnaire seems that easy,someone has to explain me.

Thank you for bringing up the memories of the articles I read in the past about those.
It is lost in the memory lane, sadly.

The cannonfodder remark might be disrespectful, however, it just came in spite of the odds that may or may not be witnessed in history, and that is a desperate move in a very desperate situation. (I mean you no offense, since this is nothing but a imaginative whim regarding those not of their own.)

Of course, basic french is required.
However, given the Latin languages difficulty and adaptability.
I believe it is in everyone's capability if they are able to learn and adapt to English from their native.

It will require the initial effort, yes.

Now, as I said to the other guy regarding Military life being relative.
That is my answer to you.
Say, you pass in the Legion and are inducted.
It is still a military life, irrespective of what state's organization you are in.

I hope that is understandable.