Systema Clubs and Their Extensions: ‘Sleeper Cells’ and Russian Networks of Influence

Over the past two decades, the combat system known as Systema—rooted in Russian special forces traditions and refined in the USSR—has spread globally, especially across Europe and North America. These clubs, often fronts for Russian intelligence agencies such as the GRU and FSB, recruit members from strategic sectors including law enforcement, military, survivalist circles, and even wellness, healthcare, and personal development fields. With 128 registered clubs in France and many others unregistered, Systema clubs operate in closed, opaque environments emphasizing psychological influence and paramilitary combat training rather than traditional martial arts systems with ranks and public competitions. Their curriculum includes advanced self-defense, weapons handling, night training, and espionage-like skills, suggesting purposes beyond peaceful self-defense, aiming to organize combat 'sleeper cells.' The movement's growth notably accelerated after 2014 and 2018, coinciding with Russian military aggression and increased geopolitical tensions. The clubs foster a culture blending Slavic myths, anti-Western ideology, and survivalist narratives, reinforcing Russian regime interests abroad under the guise of holistic wellness or cultural activities.