As Ukraine continues its fight against Russia, Senior Lieutenant Kateryna stands out as the nation's first female combat helicopter pilot. Recently, she returned from a mission where her team targeted Russian troops, proving her skills both in the air and on solid ground. When greeted upon landing, she showed no signs of needing help, asserting, "If I can land a helicopter, I don’t need help with my jacket."
While Ukraine's military seeks more female recruits amid the ongoing conflict, the numbers have risen impressively, with a 20% increase in women joining since the war began in 2022. Despite the progress, the military still grapples with entrenched sexism, creating obstacles for women like Kateryna. However, the armed forces are now pushing for gender equality through recruitment campaigns and dedicated training courses for commanders.
This pivotal change not only helps the military amidst a manpower crisis but also signifies a shift in attitudes toward women serving in combat roles, showcasing how Kateryna and her peers are redefining the image of female soldiers in Ukraine.
