An international group of journalists uncovered a classified department at the Bauman Moscow State Technical University that trains cyber-specialists for Russian military intelligence. Students at this prestigious institution learn to develop malware, breach servers, and conduct information operations under the supervision of active GRU officers.
The Insider, Le Monde, Der Spiegel, and other media outlets reported this in a joint investigation based on a leak of over 2,000 internal documents.
Journalists discovered that a hidden “Department No. 4” titled “Special Training” operates within the university’s military training center. Information regarding this unit is absent from the university’s official website.
Details of the training program
The curriculum focuses on three primary areas: digital intelligence, IT protection, and the deployment of technical influence. Students participate in practical exercises involving penetration testing through computer viruses. The main coursework for these future officers requires the development of their own malicious software.
In addition to technical skills, instructors emphasize methods of disinformation and propaganda. The program teaches students how to create manipulative videos and apply psychological pressure on social media platforms. Lieutenant Colonel Kirill Stupakov leads the program. He previously commanded a military unit specializing in signals intelligence.
According to the leaked documents, Bauman University annually sends 10–15 graduates to specialized intelligence units. In 2024 alone, at least 16 graduates from the Faculty of Informatics joined the GRU. Specifically, they join Unit 26165, which is linked to interference in French elections and cyberattacks on the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
“In 2024, 1,563 reservists and 429 potential contract officers studied at the 4th department in 14 specialties relevant to the army,” the investigation states.
Students also analyze the technical specifications of Western drones and the security structures of NATO members, specifically Germany. Furthermore, the program includes mandatory internships at sanctioned enterprises within the Russian defense sector.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that the Kremlin prepares Russians for a peace deal with Ukraine through an “image of victory”.
