Archive · 21 May 2025
Ukrainian Pilot: Kateryna Flies Combat Missions Amidst War
Imagine a brave woman named Kateryna who flies helicopters for Ukraine during the war.
She's the only female pilot who fights in the air.
Kateryna has flown many missions in a big helicopter, attacking targets and helping her country.
She always stays calm while flying, even though it's dangerous.
Before flying, she prepares by braiding her hair and wearing a uniform.
Some men think she shouldn't be a pilot, but she ignores them.
She wants to fly with her sister one day, without any war.
The Ukrainian military is trying to get more women to join, too.
Senior Lieutenant Kateryna is the only female combat helicopter pilot in Ukraine's Defence Forces.
She flies Soviet-designed Mi-8 helicopters on combat missions.
Kateryna has flown over 30 combat missions since joining the 18th Army Aviation Brigade in 2023.
She experienced sexism in the ranks, but her presence is transformative.
The Ukrainian government is encouraging more women to serve in the military.
- Who
- Senior Lieutenant Kateryna, the only female combat helicopter pilot in Ukraine's Defence Forces.
- What
- Kateryna flies Mi-8 helicopters on combat missions, transporting, navigating, and attacking targets.
- When
- Kateryna joined the 18th Army Aviation Brigade in 2023 and has flown over 30 combat missions.
- Where
- Ukraine, in the fourth year of its war with Russia.
- Why
- Kateryna flies combat missions to defend her country and combat Russian targets.
Traditionalists
Progressives
Gender Roles
Traditionalists
Some men believe that the military isn't a place for women.
Progressives
Kateryna is breaking stereotypes by flying combat missions.
- Pilot's Name
- Senior Lieutenant Kateryna
- Role
- Only female combat helicopter pilot in Ukraine's Defence Forces
- Unit
- 18th Army Aviation Brigade
- Aircraft Flown
- Mi-8 helicopter
- Combat Missions Flown
- Over 30
- Current Trend
- Encouraging more women to serve