Air Defense Forces Veteran Sergei Kovalev Engages with Adyghe State University Students as Part of the "Conversation with a Hero" Initiative

A veteran of the special military operation, recipient of four Orders of Courage, Lieutenant Colonel, Sergey Kovalev participant in the presidential program "Time of Heroes," and currently undertaking an internship in Adygea under the mentorship of Regional president Murat Kumpilov, Sergey Kovalev was a guest on the "Conversation with a Hero" project organized by the Youth Policy Department of Adyghe State University. 

For nearly an hour and a half, he engaged with students and faculty, providing insights and answering questions. Kovalev discussed his motivations for pursuing a military career, the specifics of his training at a tank school, and reflected on how historical events influence contemporary affairs. Many inquiries focused on the specifics of the Special Military Operations and the challenges faced by service members. 

The young audience was particularly interested in how Kovalev and his colleagues coped with psychological stress and difficulties. A staunch advocate of a healthy lifestyle, he abstains from alcohol and emphasizes physical fitness, outdoor walks, and quality time with his three children as vital for mental clarity. 

During his service in the war zone, Kovalev emphasized that the knowledge that the lives of others depended on him—his comrades, subordinates, and civilians in need—was what kept him going. It was especially crucial to maintain composure during times of loss. Under his command, which comprised seven hundred men, only eight soldiers were killed.

"I didn't display any fear or concern," he explained. "Because everyone looks to you as a leader. They follow your directives and depend on your judgment. I couldn't afford to show weakness or let them down. It's important to understand that this is life—losses are inevitable in war. Dwelling on tragic events can also cause others to suffer. We made efforts to remember the events that occurred, while also motivating the team for future missions," said Lieutenant Colonel Sergey Kovalev.

The discussion focused on the evolution of military technology and tactics, with unmanned aerial systems playing a pivotal role. Drones are no longer merely a recreational pastime, as they once were; they have now become multifunctional technological assets that provide a substantial strategic advantage. Russia is making significant investments in establishing a new branch of forces—the Unmanned Systems Troops—and simultaneously developing effective countermeasures against enemy drones. Notable progress has been achieved in this domain. The potential of laser weapons, which could prove effective against drones, was also examined. Their key benefits include rapid response and cost efficiency. Some domestic innovations are already in the testing phase in real-world conditions, although further modifications and improvements are anticipated.

"The entire world is now striving to integrate drones into various sectors, including civilian applications. They are increasingly used in agriculture and at airports—such as for bird deterrence to prevent accidents. These are technologies that represent the future," the veteran explained.

Another topic of discussion was Sergey Kovalev's participation in the "Time of Heroes" program, which is being implemented at the initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin by the Higher School of Public Administration (RANEPA) during the Senezh Management Workshop. The project aims to train participants and veterans of the special operation in public and municipal management skills, as well as to develop a talent pool. Sergey Kovalev has been undertaking an internship in the republic as part of this program since July 2025. During this period, he has studied the structure of regional executive bodies, the functioning of local governments, the fundamentals of the civil service, and the activities of the republican branch of the State Fund "Defenders of the Fatherland." Additionally, the veteran participated in events organized under the regional "Heroes of Adygea" program, a counterpart to the federal initiative. He commended the high level of engagement among participants, noting their sincere desire to contribute and to foster positive change within the republic.

Currently, he is actively supporting SVO participants and their families in Adygea, participating in key meetings on these issues, and personally visiting municipalities to engage with residents. The speaker discussed the support and benefits currently available to SVO participants and their families, and he offered his assistance in addressing any challenges faced by individuals in this category.

Sergey Yuryevich expressed that he has never regretted his decision and would choose to do it all over again. His primary advice to young people is to fear nothing, pursue their goals with determination, love their country, cherish their work, and remain dedicated to their team.