Breaking Barriers: Ukraine’s Female Combat Pilot Challenges Military Norms

Returning from a mission launching rockets at Russian forces, the Ukrainian helicopter descended low over a birch forest before settling in a clearing, kicking up a cloud of dust.

As the door opened, the pilot appeared, brushing dust away from her eyes, her eyelashes accentuated with mascara and nails painted a rich burgundy. Draping a heavy flight jacket over one arm, she declined assistance from a nearby ground crew member.

“Let me help you with that,” the crew member offered, but she dismissed the offer with a wave. Her confident stance conveyed a clear message: if she can skillfully pilot a helicopter, managing a jacket is no challenge.

“Men often want to act as protectors and heroes,” said Kateryna, a senior lieutenant, during a later interview. “But I didn’t join the military to be treated differently because I’m a woman. Hopefully, the army will come to understand this soon.”

Now in its fourth year, Ukraine’s all-out conflict with Russia has intensified the demand for soldiers. After years of hesitation, the military is actively encouraging more women to enlist.

Efforts include recruitment campaigns targeting women and gender equality training for commanders. Since the onset of Russia’s 2022 invasion, the Ministry of Defense reports a 20 percent increase in female personnel within the armed forces.