Shocking images emerge of military using LIVE pigs as target practice for medical training

PETA has called on military surgeons who serve in British Forces to stop the abhorrent treatment of pigs during training exercises.

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by Ellie Hooper |
Published on

In pictures obtained by the charity, live pigs are shown being shot and blown up, in order for military personnel to operate on them.

The programme, which takes place in Denmark, is in place to train military personnel on how to treat battle wounds, as pigs are genetically very similar to humans.

Understandably, animal welfare groups have reacted with rage at the cruel nature of the training programme, where pigs are blasted by AK-47 rifles and 9mm handguns.

The pigs are destroyed after the experiments, even if the operations are a success. PICS: Jørn Stjerneklar
The pigs are destroyed after the experiments, even if the operations are a success. PICS: Jørn Stjerneklar

The pigs are sedated and some anaesthetic administered, before being strung up and shot - with their bellies marked carefully to ensure the pig is maimed rather than killed.

Once the wound has been inflicted, the medics then rush to the animal's aid, treating them as if they would a wounded soldier.

However, it is believed that even if the operation is a success, the pigs are still killed after they are of no more use to the programme.

A marksman takes aim. PICS: Jørn Stjerneklar

A spokesman for the MoD said: 'Our military surgeons undertake vital training in Denmark where they learn specialist trauma treatment skills that save lives on the battlefield.'

He also added that by participating in the Danish exercises, rather than running separate ones in Britain, minimised the number of animals killed.

However PETA have slammed the training programme, stating that 23 out of 28 NATO nations do not use animals for military training, and: 'there is clear evidence that non-animal methods for training military medical personnel are available and preferred around the world.'

Lifelike human simulators used in other countries can both 'breathe' and 'bleed,' providing a realistic battlefield simulation.

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