Teens at Tatarstan Drone Factory: The Hidden Workforce Behind Russias Attack Drones

A factory in Russia, which produces attack drones intended for use in Ukraine, relies significantly on teenage students and young trainees for its assembly lines, as revealed by a recent report from the Defense Ministry-operated Zvezda TV channel.

Located in the Tatarstan region, the Alabuga facility manufactures modified Iranian-designed Shahed-136 drones, known in Russia as Geran.

The Zvezda coverage showcased the assembly lines where thousands of these drones are produced, primarily staffed by ninth-grade students and trainees from a nearby polytechnic college.

The Zvezda host stated, “Hundreds of machines and thousands of employees keep the factory operational. Young workers contribute while also being enrolled in the associated college, managed by the same authorities running the factory.”

Recruitment for positions begins right after ninth grade, ensuring job opportunities at the Alabuga Polytechnic College upon their graduation.

A sign within the factory reads: “Kurchatov, Korolyov, and Stalin are part of your heritage,” referencing notable Soviet scientists and the former dictator.

According to EuroNews, this Tatarstan plant is responsible for producing over half of Russia’s attack drones, with an output of 18,000 units in just the first half of 2025.

Military analyst Konrad Muzyka observed that the drones have undergone six modifications, making them increasingly challenging for Ukrainian air defense systems to intercept.

This summer, Russia has escalated its drone offensives against Ukraine, launching a record 728 drones in a single night earlier this month.

Investigations conducted by independent Russian news outlets Protokol and RZVRT have highlighted the poor working conditions within the factory.

Reports indicate that student workers frequently endure grueling shifts without sufficient breaks for rest or meals, and refusal to work can lead to expulsion from the college as well as financial repercussions for their families.

Journalistic inquiries also revealed the recruitment of underage female students from African nations for menial and cleaning positions within the facility.

Officials in Tatarstan have sought to legalize the employment of teens in defense production.

Proposals have suggested allowing students as young as 14 to be hired and modifying Russia’s Labor Code to permit 16-year-olds to work in hazardous environments; however, these initiatives have stalled due to criticism from activists and lawmakers.