10 – An audacious Training Solution for MW, individual and collective (Proposal)
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The effectiveness of the proposed force structure is inherently dependent on the ability of units to train, adapt, and operate within a drone-enabled and electromagnetically contested environment. While ATrainP-6 provides a solid and comprehensive foundation for mountain warfare training, the evolving operational context requires a progressive adaptation of training methodologies, rather than a complete redesign.
Mountain warfare training has traditionally emphasized physical resilience, small-unit autonomy, and the ability to operate in complex and restrictive terrain. These principles remain fully valid. However, they must now be complemented by the integration of unmanned systems, data-driven decision-making, and operations in degraded environments.
In this context, the objective is not to replace existing training frameworks, but toexpand and evolve them, ensuring that unmanned capabilities are fully embedded within current standards and practices.
A first key requirement is the systematic integration of unmanned systems into all training activities. UAS should not be treated as a standalone subject, but as a constant presence across individual, collective, and combined training. This includes both friendly and adversary drone employment, ensuring that units are exposed not only to the opportunities provided by unmanned systems, but also to the constraints and risks associated with operating under persistent observation.
Equally important is the introduction of degraded and denied conditions as a training baseline. ATrainP-6 already recognizes the challenges posed by terrain and weather; this must now be extended to include routine exposure to GNSS denial, communications disruption, and electronic warfare effects. Training environments should therefore deliberately incorporate these factors, forcing units to develop alternative procedures, reinforce adaptability, and reduce dependence on vulnerable systems.
Training must also evolve from a focus on individual operators/skills to a focus on the integration of the entire system. Commanders, staff, and support elements must be trained to manage increased information flow, coordinate multiple unmanned assets, and operate under compressed decision cycles. This implies a stronger emphasis on command post exercises (CPX) and combined training events, where data integration, prioritization, and synchronization are practiced in realistic scenarios.
In addition, training should incorporate a structured approach to experimentation and iterative learning. Units should be encouraged to test new solutions, adapt procedures, and refine tactics based on operational feedback. This includes accepting controlled failure as part of the learning process, particularly at lower echelons where innovation is most likely to emerge. The integration of lessons identified into training cycles must be continuous and systematic, ensuring alignment with evolving threats and technologies.
Mountain warfare adds a further layer of complexity that must be explicitly addressed. Training should exploit terrain, weather, and altitude variations to test both systems and procedures under realistic conditions. This includes operating in confined valleys, restricted lines of sight, extreme weather conditions, and complex vertical environments, where both unmanned systems and countermeasures behave differently compared to flat terrain. For this reason, a dedicated training for Mountain Drone Operator should be implemented as a basic standard course for all the mountain soldiers.
Finally, training must address the human dimension. The cognitive load associated with managing multiple systems, processing large volumes of data, and operating under constant observation is significant. Preparing personnel to function effectively in such conditions is essential to ensure that technological capabilities translate into operational effectiveness.
In this perspective, ATrainP-6 remains the reference framework, but it should be progressively expanded to fully integrate unmanned systems, Counter-UAS, and electromagnetic resilience as core components of mountain warfare training.
The overall objective is to move from a training system that introduces unmanned capabilities to one that fully integrates them into the identity, culture, and operational mindset of the force.
10.1 – A simple proposal for individual training (operators/staff elements/technicians)
The adaptation of training to a drone-enabled battlespace must start at the individual level. While collective training and integration remain essential, the effectiveness of unmanned systems is fundamentally dependent on the competence, versatility, and mindset of the personnel operating, supporting, and integrating them.
A practical and scalable approach is based on a progressive and role-based training pathway, designed to cover operators, staff elements, and technical personnel. This model ensures that all individuals involved in unmanned systems—regardless of their specific function—develop a common baseline before progressing toward specialization.
10.1.1 Operator Training Pathway
For UAV operators, training begins with a set of preconditions reflecting the demands of mountain warfare. These include physical fitness, medical readiness, and basic alpine skills such as skiing and climbing. This reinforces a key principle: the drone operator is not a remote specialist, but a fully integrated mountain soldier, capable of operating in the same conditions as maneuver units.
The initial phase builds on civilian-aligned certification standards, providing foundational knowledge in regulations, airspace management, safety procedures, and human factors. This ensures a standardized baseline and a solid understanding of safe and compliant drone operations. We can imagine different level of training: beginner, advance, pro flyer.
Beginner operator.
At the beginner level, the foundational knowledge is expanded through a basic military UAV course, introducing practical micro-UAV flight training across the full operational cycle, from mission planning to execution and debriefing. Training is initially conducted in less complex environments, followed by evaluation under stress conditions. The use of simulators is strongly recommended to support skill acquisition and aptitude assessment. Usage of simulator is highly recommended. This kind of courses can be common in all Land Forces (central national schools).
Advance operator.
At the advanced level, operators are required to conduct UAV operations in mountainous and compartmented terrain, under both summer and winter conditions, and again be evaluated under stress. In addition, this level includes further specialization through:
remote sensing and image exploitation tailored to mountainous environments (including snow, glaciers, and reduced visibility conditions)
Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) operations
advanced mission planning and risk management
UAV operations planning at tactical level, ideally within dedicated mountain training facilities
Progression between levels may be accelerated where prior experience allows, with candidates proceeding directly to validation phases where appropriate.
Practical training is central throughout this phase, including regular flight sessions, simulator-based aptitude testing, and exercises conducted under realistic conditions. The advance level is more typical for mountain soldiers operating drones in compartmented terrain, under both summer and winter conditions. A dedicated course in mountainous environment must be initialized.
Pro Flyer.
At the pro flyer level, operators are expected to operate across a broader spectrum of platforms, including not only micro-UAS, but also medium-range and cargo systems at battalion level. To achieve this, additional training modules should include fixed-wing UAV operations and urban flight modules.
A pro-level operator should also be capable of conducting basic maintenance tasks, including disassembly, reassembly, and repair using available spare parts, thereby contributing to operational resilience in austere environments.
Across all levels, practical training remains central, supported by regular flight sessions, simulator-based evaluations, and exercises conducted under realistic operational conditions. This progression is further complemented by advanced modules in remote sensing and image exploitation, enabling operators to convert collected data into actionable information and directly support decision-making processes.
10.1.2 Staff Element Training Pathway
In parallel with the beginner, advanced and pro flyer, staff personnel must be trained to integrate unmanned systems into planning and execution.
This requires the development of competencies in:
UAV operations planning
airspace management and deconfliction
integration of ISR into the decision-making cycle
understanding of the air domain and its procedures
A critical enabler in this context is the integration of METOC knowledge, particularly relevant in mountain environments where weather conditions—such as wind, visibility, and snow conditions—directly impact UAV performance and mission feasibility.
Training should therefore include dedicated modules enabling staff personnel to incorporate environmental factors into operational planning and to support UAV employment under varying conditions.
Advanced training should also include imagery exploitation at higher levels, allowing staff elements to contribute to the development of a coherent operational picture and support targeting processes.
10.1.3 Technical Training Pathway
A third essential component is the development of technical personnel, ensuring the sustainability, adaptability, and resilience of unmanned capabilities.
This pathway includes:
basic and advanced maintenance training for quadcopters and fixed-wing UAVs
specialization in electronics, firmware management, and system configuration
development of in-house capabilities for assembly, modification, and testing
An important aspect of this approach is the development of internal production and adaptation capabilities, including roles such as:
3D printing specialists
system assemblers
software configuration technicians
UAV test pilots
This allows units to rapidly adapt systems to operational needs, implement modifications, and maintain operational readiness even in environments where external support is limited. This part can be general for all Land forces but must be tailored for Mountain specialized drones if needed.
10.1.4 Conclusion
Across operators, staff, and technicians, emerges that unmanned systems must be treated as a distributed competence embedded across the entire force, not as an isolated capability.
The strength of this approach lies in its ability to combine:
standardized baseline training
progressive specialization
continuous practical application
direct linkage to operational requirements
10.2 Collective Training in Mountain Warfare
While individual training builds the necessary competencies, collective training is where these capabilities are integrated, tested, and validated under operational conditions.
ATrainP-6 already provides a robust framework for collective mountain warfare training, emphasizing small-unit autonomy, leadership, and the ability to operate in complex terrain. However, the introduction of unmanned systems and the contested electromagnetic environment require a systematic evolution of how collective training is designed and conducted.
The objective is to move from training units that use drones to units that fight in a drone-saturated battlespace.
10.2.1 Integration of UAS and C-UAS in All Training Activities
A first essential step is the systematic integration of UAS and Counter-UAS across all collective training activities. Unmanned systems should not be introduced as a discrete training inject, but rather treated as a constant element of the operational environment. They must be employed continuously, by both friendly forces and opposing elements, and fully embedded into all tactical problems. This includes ISR support to maneuver, the use of FPV and loitering munitions, and the employment of C-UAS measures, as well as the practical management of low-altitude airspace.
10.2.2 Training Under Degraded and Denied Conditions
Equally important is the need to train under degraded and denied conditions as a baseline, rather than an exception. In addition to the environmental challenges already addressed within ATrainP-6, training scenarios must routinely incorporate GNSS disruption, communications degradation, and electronic warfare effects. This forces units to operate with incomplete or unreliable information, adapt procedures dynamically, and maintain command and control under stress. In doing so, training shifts from reliance on technological enablers to the development of resilient and adaptive behaviour.
10.2.3 Command Post Exercises (CPX) and Data-Centric Training
At company and battalion level, the increasing volume of data generated by unmanned systems requires a stronger focus on command post training and data-centric processes. Collective training must therefore include structured Command Post Exercises (CPX), where commanders and staff are required to manage real-time information flows, prioritize targets, and synchronize ISR, fires, and maneuver. The challenge at this level is no longer access to information, but the ability to process and exploit it effectively under time pressure. Training must deliberately replicate conditions of information overload, conflicting inputs, and compressed decision-making timelines.
10.2.4 Live Exercises (LIVEX) in Drone-Saturated Environments
Live exercises (LIVEX) must also evolve accordingly. Training environments should reflect the realities of modern operations, characterized by the constant presence of drones, both friendly and adversary. This includes realistic exposure to FPV and loitering munition threats, as well as the practical employment of countermeasures. Particular attention should be given to operations conducted in confined valleys, restricted lines of sight, and fragmented terrain compartments, where communication is degraded and coordination becomes more complex. Mountain terrain, in this regard, naturally amplifies both the advantages and the limitations of unmanned systems, making it an ideal environment for realistic training.
10.2.5 Airspace Management and Deconfliction Training
Another critical aspect concerns airspace management and deconfliction at the tactical level. As the density of unmanned systems increases, particularly in mountainous environments with limited vertical separation, the risk of interference and fratricide becomes significant. Collective training must therefore include practical procedures for coordinating multiple systems, deconflicting ISR and strike assets, and integrating unmanned operations with indirect fires. The emphasis should be on simple, scalable solutions and clearly defined responsibilities.
10.2.6 Integration of Logistics and Sustainment
The logistic dimension must also be fully integrated into collective training. Sustaining unmanned operations over time requires more than technical capability; it demands robust processes for resupply, maintenance, and system management. Training scenarios should therefore include the use of cargo drones for resupply, battery rotation and management, field maintenance, and the recovery and reconfiguration of damaged systems. Without this, even advanced capabilities risk degrading rapidly in prolonged operations.
10.2.7 Experimentation and Iterative Learning
Finally, collective training must serve as a platform for continuous experimentation and iterative learning. Units should be encouraged to test new tactics, techniques, and procedures, adapt to evolving threats, and integrate lessons identified into subsequent training cycles. This requires structured feedback mechanisms, rapid dissemination of lessons learned, and a close linkage between training activities and doctrinal development.
10.2.8 Conclusion
The aim is not only to prepare forces for current operations, but to ensure that training itself becomes a driver of adaptation and innovation.
In this context, collective training transforms individual competencies into a coherent operational capability. Units must be able to integrate UAS, Counter-UAS, fires, maneuver, and electromagnetic effects into a unified system, maintain tempo under degraded conditions, and operate effectively in a battlespace defined by uncertainty, saturation, and continuous change.
ATrainP-6 provides the foundation for this process. The challenge is to evolve it into a training system that fully reflects the realities of a modern, drone-enabled mountain battlefield.
10 – An audacious Training Solution for MW, individual and collective (Proposal)
The effectiveness of the proposed force structure is inherently dependent on the ability of units to train, adapt, and operate within a drone-enabled and electromagnetically contested environment. While ATrainP-6 provides a solid and comprehensive foundation for mountain warfare training, the evolving operational context requires a progressive adaptation of training methodologies, rather than a complete redesign.
Mountain warfare training has traditionally emphasized physical resilience, small-unit autonomy, and the ability to operate in complex and restrictive terrain. These principles remain fully valid. However, they must now be complemented by the integration of unmanned systems, data-driven decision-making, and operations in degraded environments.
In this context, the objective is not to replace existing training frameworks, but to expand and evolve them, ensuring that unmanned capabilities are fully embedded within current standards and practices.
A first key requirement is the systematic integration of unmanned systems into all training activities. UAS should not be treated as a standalone subject, but as a constant presence across individual, collective, and combined training. This includes both friendly and adversary drone employment, ensuring that units are exposed not only to the opportunities provided by unmanned systems, but also to the constraints and risks associated with operating under persistent observation.
Equally important is the introduction of degraded and denied conditions as a training baseline. ATrainP-6 already recognizes the challenges posed by terrain and weather; this must now be extended to include routine exposure to GNSS denial, communications disruption, and electronic warfare effects. Training environments should therefore deliberately incorporate these factors, forcing units to develop alternative procedures, reinforce adaptability, and reduce dependence on vulnerable systems.
Training must also evolve from a focus on individual operators/skills to a focus on the integration of the entire system. Commanders, staff, and support elements must be trained to manage increased information flow, coordinate multiple unmanned assets, and operate under compressed decision cycles. This implies a stronger emphasis on command post exercises (CPX) and combined training events, where data integration, prioritization, and synchronization are practiced in realistic scenarios.
In addition, training should incorporate a structured approach to experimentation and iterative learning. Units should be encouraged to test new solutions, adapt procedures, and refine tactics based on operational feedback. This includes accepting controlled failure as part of the learning process, particularly at lower echelons where innovation is most likely to emerge. The integration of lessons identified into training cycles must be continuous and systematic, ensuring alignment with evolving threats and technologies.
Mountain warfare adds a further layer of complexity that must be explicitly addressed. Training should exploit terrain, weather, and altitude variations to test both systems and procedures under realistic conditions. This includes operating in confined valleys, restricted lines of sight, extreme weather conditions, and complex vertical environments, where both unmanned systems and countermeasures behave differently compared to flat terrain. For this reason, a dedicated training for Mountain Drone Operator should be implemented as a basic standard course for all the mountain soldiers.
Finally, training must address the human dimension. The cognitive load associated with managing multiple systems, processing large volumes of data, and operating under constant observation is significant. Preparing personnel to function effectively in such conditions is essential to ensure that technological capabilities translate into operational effectiveness.
In this perspective, ATrainP-6 remains the reference framework, but it should be progressively expanded to fully integrate unmanned systems, Counter-UAS, and electromagnetic resilience as core components of mountain warfare training.
The overall objective is to move from a training system that introduces unmanned capabilities to one that fully integrates them into the identity, culture, and operational mindset of the force.
10.1 – A simple proposal for individual training (operators/staff elements/technicians)
The adaptation of training to a drone-enabled battlespace must start at the individual level. While collective training and integration remain essential, the effectiveness of unmanned systems is fundamentally dependent on the competence, versatility, and mindset of the personnel operating, supporting, and integrating them.
A practical and scalable approach is based on a progressive and role-based training pathway, designed to cover operators, staff elements, and technical personnel. This model ensures that all individuals involved in unmanned systems—regardless of their specific function—develop a common baseline before progressing toward specialization.
10.1.1 Operator Training Pathway
For UAV operators, training begins with a set of preconditions reflecting the demands of mountain warfare. These include physical fitness, medical readiness, and basic alpine skills such as skiing and climbing. This reinforces a key principle: the drone operator is not a remote specialist, but a fully integrated mountain soldier, capable of operating in the same conditions as maneuver units.
The initial phase builds on civilian-aligned certification standards, providing foundational knowledge in regulations, airspace management, safety procedures, and human factors. This ensures a standardized baseline and a solid understanding of safe and compliant drone operations. We can imagine different level of training: beginner, advance, pro flyer.
Beginner operator.
At the beginner level, the foundational knowledge is expanded through a basic military UAV course, introducing practical micro-UAV flight training across the full operational cycle, from mission planning to execution and debriefing. Training is initially conducted in less complex environments, followed by evaluation under stress conditions. The use of simulators is strongly recommended to support skill acquisition and aptitude assessment. Usage of simulator is highly recommended. This kind of courses can be common in all Land Forces (central national schools).
Advance operator.
At the advanced level, operators are required to conduct UAV operations in mountainous and compartmented terrain, under both summer and winter conditions, and again be evaluated under stress. In addition, this level includes further specialization through:
Progression between levels may be accelerated where prior experience allows, with candidates proceeding directly to validation phases where appropriate.
Practical training is central throughout this phase, including regular flight sessions, simulator-based aptitude testing, and exercises conducted under realistic conditions. The advance level is more typical for mountain soldiers operating drones in compartmented terrain, under both summer and winter conditions. A dedicated course in mountainous environment must be initialized.
Pro Flyer.
At the pro flyer level, operators are expected to operate across a broader spectrum of platforms, including not only micro-UAS, but also medium-range and cargo systems at battalion level. To achieve this, additional training modules should include fixed-wing UAV operations and urban flight modules.
A pro-level operator should also be capable of conducting basic maintenance tasks, including disassembly, reassembly, and repair using available spare parts, thereby contributing to operational resilience in austere environments.
Across all levels, practical training remains central, supported by regular flight sessions, simulator-based evaluations, and exercises conducted under realistic operational conditions. This progression is further complemented by advanced modules in remote sensing and image exploitation, enabling operators to convert collected data into actionable information and directly support decision-making processes.
10.1.2 Staff Element Training Pathway
In parallel with the beginner, advanced and pro flyer, staff personnel must be trained to integrate unmanned systems into planning and execution.
This requires the development of competencies in:
A critical enabler in this context is the integration of METOC knowledge, particularly relevant in mountain environments where weather conditions—such as wind, visibility, and snow conditions—directly impact UAV performance and mission feasibility.
Training should therefore include dedicated modules enabling staff personnel to incorporate environmental factors into operational planning and to support UAV employment under varying conditions.
Advanced training should also include imagery exploitation at higher levels, allowing staff elements to contribute to the development of a coherent operational picture and support targeting processes.
10.1.3 Technical Training Pathway
A third essential component is the development of technical personnel, ensuring the sustainability, adaptability, and resilience of unmanned capabilities.
This pathway includes:
An important aspect of this approach is the development of internal production and adaptation capabilities, including roles such as:
This allows units to rapidly adapt systems to operational needs, implement modifications, and maintain operational readiness even in environments where external support is limited. This part can be general for all Land forces but must be tailored for Mountain specialized drones if needed.
10.1.4 Conclusion
Across operators, staff, and technicians, emerges that unmanned systems must be treated as a distributed competence embedded across the entire force, not as an isolated capability.
The strength of this approach lies in its ability to combine:
10.2 Collective Training in Mountain Warfare
While individual training builds the necessary competencies, collective training is where these capabilities are integrated, tested, and validated under operational conditions.
ATrainP-6 already provides a robust framework for collective mountain warfare training, emphasizing small-unit autonomy, leadership, and the ability to operate in complex terrain. However, the introduction of unmanned systems and the contested electromagnetic environment require a systematic evolution of how collective training is designed and conducted.
The objective is to move from training units that use drones to units that fight in a drone-saturated battlespace.
10.2.1 Integration of UAS and C-UAS in All Training Activities
A first essential step is the systematic integration of UAS and Counter-UAS across all collective training activities. Unmanned systems should not be introduced as a discrete training inject, but rather treated as a constant element of the operational environment. They must be employed continuously, by both friendly forces and opposing elements, and fully embedded into all tactical problems. This includes ISR support to maneuver, the use of FPV and loitering munitions, and the employment of C-UAS measures, as well as the practical management of low-altitude airspace.
10.2.2 Training Under Degraded and Denied Conditions
Equally important is the need to train under degraded and denied conditions as a baseline, rather than an exception. In addition to the environmental challenges already addressed within ATrainP-6, training scenarios must routinely incorporate GNSS disruption, communications degradation, and electronic warfare effects. This forces units to operate with incomplete or unreliable information, adapt procedures dynamically, and maintain command and control under stress. In doing so, training shifts from reliance on technological enablers to the development of resilient and adaptive behaviour.
10.2.3 Command Post Exercises (CPX) and Data-Centric Training
At company and battalion level, the increasing volume of data generated by unmanned systems requires a stronger focus on command post training and data-centric processes. Collective training must therefore include structured Command Post Exercises (CPX), where commanders and staff are required to manage real-time information flows, prioritize targets, and synchronize ISR, fires, and maneuver. The challenge at this level is no longer access to information, but the ability to process and exploit it effectively under time pressure. Training must deliberately replicate conditions of information overload, conflicting inputs, and compressed decision-making timelines.
10.2.4 Live Exercises (LIVEX) in Drone-Saturated Environments
Live exercises (LIVEX) must also evolve accordingly. Training environments should reflect the realities of modern operations, characterized by the constant presence of drones, both friendly and adversary. This includes realistic exposure to FPV and loitering munition threats, as well as the practical employment of countermeasures. Particular attention should be given to operations conducted in confined valleys, restricted lines of sight, and fragmented terrain compartments, where communication is degraded and coordination becomes more complex. Mountain terrain, in this regard, naturally amplifies both the advantages and the limitations of unmanned systems, making it an ideal environment for realistic training.
10.2.5 Airspace Management and Deconfliction Training
Another critical aspect concerns airspace management and deconfliction at the tactical level. As the density of unmanned systems increases, particularly in mountainous environments with limited vertical separation, the risk of interference and fratricide becomes significant. Collective training must therefore include practical procedures for coordinating multiple systems, deconflicting ISR and strike assets, and integrating unmanned operations with indirect fires. The emphasis should be on simple, scalable solutions and clearly defined responsibilities.
10.2.6 Integration of Logistics and Sustainment
The logistic dimension must also be fully integrated into collective training. Sustaining unmanned operations over time requires more than technical capability; it demands robust processes for resupply, maintenance, and system management. Training scenarios should therefore include the use of cargo drones for resupply, battery rotation and management, field maintenance, and the recovery and reconfiguration of damaged systems. Without this, even advanced capabilities risk degrading rapidly in prolonged operations.
10.2.7 Experimentation and Iterative Learning
Finally, collective training must serve as a platform for continuous experimentation and iterative learning. Units should be encouraged to test new tactics, techniques, and procedures, adapt to evolving threats, and integrate lessons identified into subsequent training cycles. This requires structured feedback mechanisms, rapid dissemination of lessons learned, and a close linkage between training activities and doctrinal development.
10.2.8 Conclusion
The aim is not only to prepare forces for current operations, but to ensure that training itself becomes a driver of adaptation and innovation.
In this context, collective training transforms individual competencies into a coherent operational capability. Units must be able to integrate UAS, Counter-UAS, fires, maneuver, and electromagnetic effects into a unified system, maintain tempo under degraded conditions, and operate effectively in a battlespace defined by uncertainty, saturation, and continuous change.
ATrainP-6 provides the foundation for this process. The challenge is to evolve it into a training system that fully reflects the realities of a modern, drone-enabled mountain battlefield.