I nearly missed this next Insecure Writer’s Support Group post of 2024 as I was frantically trying to finish Episode 26 of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights. It was overdue by over two months from the last day my characters appeared on duty. However, I finished and posted it with a day to spare:
Unfortunately, if the election of President Trump stands, Ukraine could be forced into a peace which cedes not just territory but thousands of Ukrainians who do not want to be second-class Russians. Also, Putin and other autocrats will be emboldened, and countries like Taiwan will feel threatened. What then?
Slava Ukrayini
The other writing news is I’ve drafted an acceptable query letter for my Welsh police procedural. I was unsure what books to compare it to, but I chose a series set in South Wales and a lesbian crime writer I admire. Ultimately, it must stand up in its unique way.
**
Every month, IWSG announces a question that members can answer in their IWSG posts. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
November 6 question – What creative activity do you engage in when you’re not writing?
It would be great to do something creative other than writing but I’m aware of a drawback or two. My fingers are not nimble enough for some activities I’ve attempted. Nor do I have the space on the desk over my bed.
A few months ago, I attempted to revive my photography which was part of my career as a journalist from my early twenties onwards… although with breaks for other careers in farming, wholesale food marketing, and the film industry. Sadly, I’m struggling to upload any recent photos. Maybe one day.
My last photo of Quetzal RIP
Many decades ago, a girlfriend taught me to knit, and I made a scarf for her. A few years later, when we had both married other people, she admitted to dismantling my only attempt at knitting.
My attempt to play the flute lasted longer, although I eventually sold that flute to a more adept player. However, I still have the wooden Nepalese flute I bought in Kathmandu… the start of my flute adventure.
As a kid, I made a lot of plastic models from kits, mainly 1st World War biplanes, which my brother and I hung from the ceiling by thread. Making them was very fiddly so not a hobby to revisit.
My wife plays computer games that involve designing and building structures, from houses to workshops. I used to play the same games, and I’m tempted to return to them… when I’m not writing.
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG, and our hashtag is #IWSG.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group Day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
This is Episode 26 of Freedom Flights. This episode concludes events in early July and sets up events in August that precipitate occurrences throughout September.
Although the Kursk incursion doesn’t directly involve the Night Witches, I am unable to ignore it and so this episode’s actions lead into Episode 27, which includes Kursk as well as the first engagements with F-16s. However, the Witches might get to use other NATO jets in their arsenal.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 26 – Deceptive Intuition
2024
Tuesday, July 16th – Squadron Command Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Nadia Lysenko and Aleks Górski discussed their possible role before entering the Squadron Command Centre for the 0600 meeting with the Special Forces team.
“They need volunteers to fly a helicopter with Special Forces troops somewhere covert,” said Nadia. “Perun from Sikorsky Brigade suggested we had the right craft for such an operation.”
“Anatol is here to help Janina Patriksson and her team modify the helicopter,” said Aleks. ”Are you ready to join a crazy crew?”
“Probably when we learn more.”
They arrived outside the Command Centre as Ruslan Medved and his comrades went in, so they joined them.
Lieutenant Petrenko was sitting beside Maksym Bondarenko and the Chayka majors. Maksym opened the briefing.
“Last night, we were unable to discuss why Special Forces needed to approach the 2022 Night Witches Squadron. I’ll let Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko explain.”
The dark-haired sturdy officer stood and surveyed the select group.
“Everything you hear here is highly classified as is everything connected to this operation. I have been tasked by my superiors within Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces with finding the best helicopter pilot to fly a crack unit behind enemy lines on a secret mission.”
“What are the criteria?” asked Perun sitting aloof from the others.
“It was suggested that someone in your Sikorsky Brigade must have the expertise to sneak in low and fast flying a suitable helicopter. Yet, you say this squadron has more modern craft and a pilot experienced at flying special forces behind enemy lines.”
Lukyan looked at Nadia.
“Kapitan Nadia Lysenko, please tell me about your military experience before joining the Night Witches?”
Nadia stood and saluted.
“Before I joined the Night Witches and became Ukrainian, sir, I served in the French Air and Space Force. I flew with the 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment, primarily attached to the 13th Battalion Chasseurs Alpins and saw action low-level flying a Eurocopter Cougar to get the troops in and out, sometimes flying a Eurocopter Tiger to harass and defend, like Afghanistan in 2011. Also, I flew missions in the 2nd Ivorian Civil War in 2011. Seven years later in northern Mali, I flew for the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment as my previous commander said I was ‘adept at surprising the enemy by coming in very fast and low’… a reputation I aimed to keep.”
“Impressive and no doubt exactly the pilot we need. However, can any of your helicopters here match or exceed 300 km/h?”
He grinned mischievously.
“Not in our current inventory, sir,” said Nadia. “But in the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment, I flew NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters… abbreviated to TTH. The 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment took delivery of 18 in 2023, so if I could persuade either of my former commanders to lease us one, an NH90 has the speed and stealth capabilities for a covert mission into enemy territory.”
Lukyan smiled and nodded towards Maksym.
“It seems your Kapitan Lysenko knows our minds. Let me introduce everyone to Kapitan Lysenko’s former comrade, Lieutenant Aline Bonheur.” He gestured to a lithe redhead who emerged from a side door.
Nadia and Aline embraced, kissing each other twice on the cheek and exchanging a flurry of French.
Lukyan coughed politely, and the two French pilots snapped to attention.
“Apologies Lieutenant Petrenko, it’s been four months since we served together in the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment,” said Aline. “As agreed between Kyiv and Paris, I flew one NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 to a secure location in Poland where its French roundels were changed to Ukrainian roundels and trident insignia and your night camouflage were added. The NH90 is here in a ground-floor hangar bay.”
There were surprised murmurs from everyone
NH90 TTH Caïman transport helicopter of the French ALAT (Light Aviation of the Army): (Photo Stéphane GIMARD)
“Excellent. This Caïman is the French Army designation for the NH90 TTH Standard 2 variant for special ops,” said Lukyan. “As Nadia correctly observed the NH90 will match or exceed 300 km/h… with any modifications engineers can make. It also has stealth features like the infrared suppression system of exhaust gases for decreased sensory visibility against heat-seeking missiles.
“Also,” added Aline, “According to Airbus Helicopters, the NH90 possesses the lowest radar signature in its class, principally due to its diamond-shaped composite fuselage.”
Master Engineer Anatol Krakarth and Chief Warrant Officer Janina Patriksson studied schematics on one of the room’s screens.
“These NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 diagrams show a few areas where modifications could be made,” said Janina. “But I’m unsure whether we have all the right material here.”
“We probably do at Dęblin, but the University might not be such a secure location to work in unnoticed,” added Anatol.
Lukyan nodded. “That is why we came here to prepare, while the main incursion force gathers as if ready to reinforce front-line positions. However, I’m not a party yet as to where or when the incursion occurs. For now, we’ll be training while the NH90 Caïman is being modified. Any questions?”
Ruslan’s friend Danylo raised his hand.
“Where are we training? Is there a suitable area here?”
Kalyna whispered to Lukyan and he nodded.
“An all-female security unit patrols this base. Your mission is to enter at the northwest end and reach the hangar at the northeast end. Enter and identify the hostage before he or she is executed… and without all being captured or killed.”
“Should be easy,” said Danylo.
“Not when GROM, the Polish Special Forces, trained our security unit,” replied Nadia. “And some are K9 handlers.”
“This will be a night mission,” said Lukyan. “Commencing any time tonight after 2100. Both sides will use non-lethal Simunition which Chayka will supply. As usual wear body armor and headgear. I advise caution when engaging with K9s though as they are highly trained. However, if confronted by drones, shoot to disable them. If there are no questions, you are dismissed. Debrief at 0800.”
Kalyna stood and addressed the special forces.
“If you wait here, First Lieutenant Andżelika Sówka of the Night Owls will take you to our armoury to equip you with all the Simunition supplies you’ll need tonight. Take time to familiarize yourself with the equipment. Be aware that the base is now on lockdown. Janina, the floor is yours. ”
Janina waved the two pilots over to where she and Anatol studied the schematics.
“We’ve identified where we might commence testing for modifications. Aline, I’ll call the rest of our engineering team, and you can take us to your NH90.”
After four hours of analyzing the modifications feasible on the NH90 Caïman, the engineering team started implementing what seemed achievable, especially when Anatol could acquire crucial equipment and materials from Dęblin.
“I’ve been worrying for an hour or more about one key oversight,” said Nadia to Aline when they slipped down to the Zvenigora Restaurant for an early evening meal.
“Which you failed to mention earlier to everyone. Why?” asked her friend.
“Because I wanted to talk to you first… alone. Do you know anything about the terms under which we’re using this helicopter? Is it still a French craft or Ukrainian? Are we meant to return it relatively unscathed? Most importantly, will our ‘improvements’ be acceptable to the ultimate owners?”
“I guess it’s still the property of the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment or French Army Light Aviation. I hope ‘our improvements’ will be appreciated. However, my commander’s parting words were ‘Don’t let any sensitive technologies fall into enemy hands or’… well you can guess what the Lieutenant colonel said.”
“What would that be, cherie?” asked a flirtatious journalist. “I’m this squadron’s friend, aren’t I Nadia? Your friend looks to have sensitive armes d’amour.”
“Moi? I’m as lithe as a jungle cat and my claws are too sharp for you.”
“Meow. Your claws or the armaments on the NH90 you landed masterfully this morning. Tell me more about this beauty. Will you let Nadia fly her?”
At that moment, Andżelika and Estera Sówka arrived and hurriedly escorted Aaron Garcia out of the restaurant protesting his innocence so all the customers heard.
“Let’s follow,” said Nadia. “This should be interesting if I know what they’re up to.”
She paid for their meal and then they followed.
Estera turned and grinned as she spoke.
“Do you want to join this game and add some spice? You’d be perfect.”
“What’s this all about?” asked Aaron, voice wavering. “I was only flirting. It was harmless.”
“You’ll see when we’ve tied you up,” said Andżelika and chuckled.
Surprised by Aaron’s sudden removal from the restaurant by her fellow Night Owls, Anhelina Tkachuk wondered if the night exercise had started. Except it was still 19.45.
“Don’t worry, you’ve got another hour,” helicopter pilot Polina Moroz said. “Plenty of time to finalise tomorrow’s arrangements to see your cousin Olha at Superhumans.”
“They’re expecting all four of us,” added Olha’s flight leader, Adriana Pavlenko. “Including Estera since she agreed to drive the old Toyota truck with the donations for the centre.”
“Five if I’m allowed to bring Quetzal?”
“Of course. She’s a service dog… who will flatten a special forces guy tonight.”
They all cheered for Anhelina’s red & white Siberian Husky.
*
Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
The special forces unit crouched off the road into the airbase ten minutes before the exercise commenced.
“What was the final Night Owls count? Any change from your tally, Ruslan?” asked Lukyan. “Remember from here on use call signs.”
“Understood Panther. No change from 12 GROM trained with four K9s.”
“OK, Lynx. Same numbers now our reinforcements were sneaked in. But they’re on home ground. Spare the Simunition as we’ve shared it out. Use unarmed combat rather than weapons. Infiltrate in fours along the four agreed routes. Slava Ukrayini.”
*
Kalyna and Vasy studied the monitors in the Saab MSHORAD as Aslög used the hidden Giraffe AMB radar to sweep the northwest end of the base, assisted by drones designed to detect armed humans.
“Strange there are now sixteen intruders. Unfortunately, we’re only observers. However, our eighteen Owls will handle them, especially with five K9s, ensuring all approaches are covered,” said Kalyna.
“Our task,” said Vasy, “Is to ensure the real enemy doesn’t use the exercise as cover for a sneak attack. At least Sable Flight is patrolling around Lusk to protect them and us, while Gold Flight is covering Lviv’s northern flank. Everyone else is on standby. Tamila Medved volunteered to run the Command Centre tonight until I return.”
*
Lukyan looked at his watch, 2100. He directed Puma’s four on the far side of the road to infiltrate along the southern fence line.
Then he launched a spotter drone towards the main buildings hoping to detect defenders protecting the concealed hangars. There was no movement, only a large black vehicle with ground-to-air missiles mounted ready for launch.
“Hopefully for the enemy not us,’ he whispered to his team before they moved forward a few metres in a crouch.
Silence. A solitary bird call which he struggled to identify until another answered.
“Night Owls. They’ve spotted us. But where are they?”
Suddenly a burst of gunfire shattered the calm. But the team couldn’t see anything with their night equipment.
“The shots were towards the southern fence,” said Leopard. “Will Puma cope?’
*
Using the southern fence line, the Puma team made progress until gunfire forced them to crawl into cover searching for the combatants.
“Has one of our teams found the first line of defense?” asked Cheetah. “Or do we sneak past and make for the objective.”
“Mission first,” said Puma. “Anyway, we don’t have a team in the centre. Only Panther by the buildings.”
“This must be a trap,” said Cougar. “We’re wise to ignore it.”
As they continued they heard a flight of jets take off heading towards Kyiv.
The sound muffled the whispering engine of a drone overhead observing them.
*
Andżelika and Estera Sówka chuckled as their two drones tracked the groups that hadn’t walked into the sound effect trap. Alicja Dubicka lowered the tape machine’s volume gradually and switched it off.
The Night Owls split into two groups of three plus a K9 unit as a less noticeable tracker while they followed the teams.
*
All three of the Panther team heard the drone at once. Jaguar got the nod to disable it
“We’ve got to be faster,” said Panther. “A real enemy would’ve killed us. I suspect the Owls have surrounded us. Our first objective is to check if that missile launcher is neutral or hostile.”
Once they had surrounded the launcher, Kalyna stepped out.
“Welcome to Chayka Field’s main ground defence, Saab’s MSHORAD. We’re just observing your exercise while watching for the real enemy. Rather than give your opponents an advantage, Lieutenant, we’ll save the tour for tomorrow.”
Aneta Filipek and her Owl colleague, recruited at Dęblin, waited in a hidden trench for a Sówka team to appear behind the approaching intruders.
A shot winged the rear figure and his three colleagues dived for the bushes hiding the trench.
But Aneta and her colleague had perfect shots lined up, so they ordered the men to surrender as a dog growled behind the trio.
“Taika, ground,” said his handler Aldona Jagoda.
“Guess you Polish ladies outwitted us,” said Panther. “But at what cost? Half your owls to capture just a few of ours. Now you have to guard us.”
“Aneta and Aldona. Lock them up in the cellar and then join us,” said Estera.
The Panther team were escorted into the trench built under part of the main terminal. They were led through a concealed door into a small room with two beds, a stove and a kettle. At the back was a cage in which the trio were locked with water and rye bread.
“There’s a bunk bed and we’ll return before the debrief. Escape is futile with concrete all around you,” said Aneta.
Taika barked a warning.
*
Zyta Sadowska and another Owl recruit waited in a trench under an abandoned armoured car. A ladder led up to makeshift bunks. A machine gun was planned to increase the position’s strength.
Zyta was looking out of the gunport when she spied a drone scanning ahead of approaching hostiles. She was tempted to disable it, but that would give their position away.
The lead gestured at the AC and his team of four stealthily moved around the vehicle.
One fired into the trench and Zyta heard her comrade scream. Her attacker shouted, “Inside”.
She slammed the AC hatch closed and bolted the rear doors. Then as she was about to shoot the drone, one of the squadron’s capture drones neutralized it and it fell groundward. Before it hit the earth, Mariyka Shevchuk caught it in a large butterfly net.
“First successful use of our ground-launched capture device without damaging the target. Our special forces visitors should be pleased to get this back intact plus some Chayka capture drones.”
Andżelika was watching the feed from their spotter drone which none of the escaping quartet had noted.
“They’re heading across the runway to the control tower where I hope Estera’s group are waiting to spring the next trap.”
*
Confronted by the woodland behind the terminal, Ruslan and the Lynx team had reached the same conclusion as Danylo and the Ocelot team.
“If they hide jets in here, Owls are going to be tough to find before they wing us,” said Ruslan. ”Lynx team will take the northern perimeter while Ocelot skirts the buildings thus evading the trees.”
Everyone agreed to regroup at the end of the woodland before the final approach to the hangar.
*
There was almost no light in the hangar, a single bulb where the three hostages were tied in chairs fastened to a central girder.
The rest of the space was dark except where shafts of moonlight revealed skeletons of ancient planes, covered with a shroud of cobwebs.
Aaron glanced into the shadows where he feared the guards were lurking and listening to his questions. Why didn’t Nadia or Aline know anything?
He leaned closer so the guards couldn’t hear.
“Is it something about this NH90 Caïman? I’ve seen one before when the Spanish Army took delivery of its HT-29 Caimáns in December 2014. Back then, I did a lot of research to write a complimentary in-depth review. They were the NH90 Gslot PA TTH variant, an earlier model than yours.”
“Did you notice any differences worth mentioning in your paper?” asked Nadia. “Remind me of your magazines, please Aaron?”
“Mainly ‘Vuelo del Águila’ but a few others feel the coverage helps. Variations on helicopters always interest enthusiasts… like your craft seems to have larger fuel tanks and different gun mounts. Without you saying more Aline… or cherie Nadia, it’s not much of a story.”
Neither pilot responded so Aaron was left dreaming up another ploy.
*
Lieutenant Petrenko was surprised to be released from the cellar by Major Kalyna Chayka and escorted to the Squadron Command Centre where Major Vasy Chayka was waiting with new orders.
“Your superiors within Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces have requested you and your men return to your base of operations with the NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 piloted by Lieutenant Bonheur and Kapitan Lysenko.”
“What will happen to the modifications which were incomplete last night? We were due a delivery of crucial equipment and materials from Dęblin.”
Vasy and Kalyna discussed the issue and Vasy gave their conclusion.
“Identify the key personnel you need to complete the modifications and your assignment. Then your most crucial will fly in your NH90 and when the delivery arrives from Dęblin the rest can follow by the most efficient means.”
Lukyan nodded, accepting the orders but he had a final question.
“Why the sudden change of plans?”
“It was your superiors’ decision. Please ask them.”
*
Wednesday, July 17th – Helicopter Hangar Bay, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Fifteen special forces troops and two pilots stood beside the NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 at 0600 when Lukyan Petrenko and Kalyna Chayka entered the Hangar Bay. Everyone saluted, and then Lukyan addressed them.
“It was unfortunate last night‘s exercise was called off, but this means the real action will be soon. Although we are leaving Chayka Field, some of their engineers are following shortly with the means to make our NH90 faster and stealthier. Major Chayka wishes to say a few words.”
Kalyna saluted Lukyan and then spoke.
“We are glad to be helping you first, by lending you our best helicopter pilot, Kapitan Nadia Lysenko, whom I know will do everything to ensure your safe return. Second, we are sending our best engineers with Dęblin’s Anatol Krakarth to help make your NH90 so stealthy and swift the enemy won’t see you coming. Whatever your mission is we at Chayka Field all wish you success. Teach our enemies a deadly lesson they won’t forget and may your actions hasten the peace we strive for.
She paused then shouted, “Slava Ukraini”
Everyone cried out, “Heroiam slava!.”
*
Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Anhelina Tkachuk never missed her morning exercise routine with Quetzal. Her red & white Siberian Husky thrived on the daily sessions and today they faced a three-hour road trip to the Superhumans Center in Wynnyky near Lviv.
She had a sleepless night worrying about seeing her cousin Olha after her amputated left arm had been replaced with a prosthesis. The noise from a helicopter leaving the base around 0630 had triggered her fear of Olha ever flying again.
She slumped on the ground and Quetzal leaned her head on Anhelina’s chest.
Siberian Husky: Image Credit: Aleksandr Abrosimov, Shutterstock
“Are you okay, Anhelina? At least Quetzal is guarding you.”
From the curved prosthetic foot, she knew Polina Moroz had been running.
“I took a break after my workout. Are the others waiting?”
“Olha’s flight leader Adriana went to help Estera refuel the old Toyota truck we all loaded with the donations for Superhumans”
The sound of a vehicle approaching made them look towards the entrance. The Polish truck drew closer and Polina waved, recognizing the two helicopter instructors from Dęblin, Brajan Rudawski and Igor Dubicki.
“I guess you want Anatol. He’s in the Blackhawk hangar, the one with open doors.”
“Correct. We’ve brought the equipment and materials he wanted,” said Igor. “If Aleks is around, can you tell her I’m here, please?”
“We’re leaving for Lviv shortly, but we’ll pass on a message.”
Anhelina, Quetzal and Polina cut through the terminal to reach the Toyota and met Kalyna.
“The Dęblin truck has arrived so we told the guys where Anatol was,” said Polina. “Igor wants to see Aleks, but we’re leaving for Superhumans—”
“To see Olha Tkachuk. Wish her love and strength from all of us. We miss her and want her back in full health. Travel safely, sisters.” Kalyna paused and then added, ”I’ll ensure Aleks sees Igor. She hasn’t taken Nadia’s departure at all well.”
At the rear of the terminal, Polina, Anhelina and Quetzal climbed into the Toyota where Estera and Adriana were estimating how long the journey took.
They drove around to the front of the terminal. The Blackhawk was outside being loaded with the delivery from Dęblin by the engineers and crew. They waved to everyone before leaving the base and heading for the H17 southwards.
Having found Aleks sitting alone and brooding in Alpha Tiger, Kalyna told her that Igor needed her where the Blackhawk was being loaded. She led her there hoping Igor could lift Alek’s mood. She let the couple talk while she went to find the helicopter’s crew.
They were discussing which passengers to take. Kalyna handed the flight instructions from Special Forces to the pilots Captain Henrika Visser and Lieutenant Beitris Berengar.
“Is all that equipment restricting your passengers to less than must go, Henrika?”
“Yes. We’re down to six, but Anatol needs Janina, Mariyka and her three flight engineers, plus the two instructors from Dęblin. We must drop two of those and can’t agree on who is dispensable.”
Looking around the gathered group, Kalyna made a risky decision.
“ Are your two gunners needed? Isn’t anyone else able to cover that role?”
Cecilija Lusk whispered to her colleague who nodded.
“We could be replaced by some here,” said Cecilija adding, “ Aren’t engineers more crucial to this mission?”
Kalyna nodded and Henrika said, “The engineers loaded correctly and I’m sure two or more of them can fire these guns.”
Brajan stepped forward. “Igor and I instructed our helicopter cadets on various armaments with the assistance of weapons officers.”
“If you can persuade your colleague to leave his friend,” said Henrika, “we would be ready to fly.”
This is the final part of Episode 25 of Freedom Flights. This part concludes events in early July when various key incidents occurred in Europe and the USA. As foreshadowed in the last scene of Episode 24, the monthly movie night closes the episode.
Episode 26 will attempt to cover events from August up to early September without resorting to multiple parts. However, the Kursk incursion doesn’t directly involve the Night Witches… or something that happens here will.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page on the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 25 – Irreversible Path
2024
PART 5 – Versatile Deception
Saturday, July 13th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
071211-N-9623R-006 .FORT HUNTER LIGGETT, Calif. (Dec. 11, 2007) Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 17 assist in loading fellow Seabees into a Blackhawk medical evacuation helicopter during a mass casualty drill. NMCB-17 and other units are taking part in joint three-week field exercise known as “Operation Bearing Duel.” U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth W. Robinson (Released)
It was dark when Captain Henrika Visser landed the Black Hawk at Chayka Field with the assistance of Lieutenant Beitris Berengar. On the trip from Lviv, they had all felt dejected having left Olha Tkachuk awaiting an arm amputation. Her flight leader, Adriana Pavlenko, had insisted on staying by her side as long as she was allowed.
However, the Night Owl medics Zyta Sadowska and Alicja Dubicka flew back in the helicopter, along with Estera Sówka. Sable Flight had escorted them back safely, landing between the farmers’ fields before being marshalled to their safe stands in the woodland. There they noticed some unexpected Sukhoi Su-24s, perhaps the unexpected visitors.
The darkness hid Estera’s fear from the other Owls. She had understood when Adriana wanted to be with Olha, but now she would be alone telling Anhelina Tkachuk about her cousin. Her heart thumped harder than ever. Hopefully, the right opportunity will arise.
Crew and medics led the way inside beyond the deceptively rusty doors, through which the ground crew moved the Black Hawk.
Kalyna and Vasy welcomed everyone and having left Henrika and her flight crew to discuss technical operations with their maintenance team, led the medics off for a debrief in the Command Centre.
“The incident at Myrhorod Air Base sounded medically traumatic,” said Kalyna. “It’s always tough when our own are killed or severely wounded. This was the second flight to be decimated like this. First Sable was wiped out leaving Maryna Sobol and Katia Antonov to recover. Now Adriana Pavlenko sees Blue Flight almost destroyed and must be afraid Olha Tkachuk may never fly again.”
“Which is where I can help,” said Estera. “First, by telling Olha’s cousin Anhelina Tkachuk what’s happened. Then by persuading her to encourage Olha not to give up flying.”
“Talk to Polina Moroz,” said Vasy. “She’s flying a helicopter again despite having a prosthetic leg. Like Polina was, Olha should be sent to Superhumans for her prosthetic arm.”
Zyta whispered a reminder to her fellow medic, Alicja, who then said,
“After being at Myrhorod Air Base, we discussed how we needed similar if not better medical facilities here.”
“Over the last few days,” added Henrika at the door. “It’s felt like we’ve been operating a MEDEVAC service with the Black Hawk. Maybe we should offer that regularly as we have the trained medics.”
“One problem,” said Estera. “We were dependent on Polish doctors while at Dęblin. We need one of our own. I have an idea if I have permission.”
Everyone agreed and they all left the Command Centre.
“Time to eat as long as the canteen is still serving hot food at 2300,” said Henrika. “Aren’t we coming off overtime?”
The canteen was crowded and Estera said she’d better find Anhelina and maybe Polina.
A group of male pilots were holding court near the bar.
“It’s a shame you ladies didn’t qualify to fly F-16s,” said the black-haired pilot at the centre of the fuss. “Instead, my squadron will fly some of Ukraine’s first F-16s in a few weeks. First, we need our Sukhoi Su-24s”
He grinned and slicked back his oiled hair.
“It’s a shame you ignored the warnings about our short runway,” said Mariyka Shevchuk. “Now our main runway is blocked by two of your Sukhoi Su-24s… and you expect me and my engineers to deal with them. What do you think Commanders?”
Vasy approached the cocky pilot.
“Last time I met you, Kapitan Andriy Oliynyk, you and your 41st Tactical Aviation Brigade colleagues were seducing the F-16 trainers. A pity you didn’t learn any manners before you came here.”
“You might also have discovered what happened at your base today,” added Kalyna. “While you were obstructing our runway, the Russians sent some ORLAN 10 drones to recce Kalyniv—”
“So, they bombed it, and we’re stuck here?” guessed Andriy.
“Fortunately, no. Our spotters called in one of our Tigers which neutralized them. So, you can all leave in the morning.”
He glanced at his flight who nodded.
“Tomas will lead our survivors back to Kalyniv. But Fedir and I must stay until your engineers have repaired—”
“No, you will be flown back in the helicopter collecting our spotters.”
Polina Moroz winked and stepped forward. “Permission to fly to Kalyniv, commanders.”
She made a point of revealing her prosthetic leg as she moved, shocking Andriy.
“I won’t fly with her. Isn’t there another?”
“Possibly. But Polina not only flew the Tiger that saved Kalyniv, but she’s an ace goal scorer.”
**
Saab 340 AEWC, Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
Marusya Dudziarz and Tayanita Brave Beaver thanked the crew of the Saab 340 AEWC for an instructive flight before disembarking.
Colonel Alfhild Falkborg followed them outside and upstairs to the old Night Witches office. Inside at a paper-strewn table, Maksym Bondarenko and Aenoheso Little Hawk were still working with another Ukrainian officer.
“Your code is brilliant, Aenoheso,” said the officer. “Using every known means including computers we can’t break it. Maybe the odd word, but the Russians will be stumped.”
Seeing Tayanita, Aenoheso embraced her friend.
“The secret starting point was taking six native languages from both Americas. You were correct earlier in presuming our inspiration was the Code Talkers of the World Wars.”
“We were right, Maksym, to see the Night Witches as a treasure to be nurtured,” said Alfhild. “Their drone interceptors worked perfectly and have recovered a dozen ORLANs to analyze and replicate with improvements. No doubt portable ground-launched interceptors will be next.”
“As some were launched hundreds of kilometres from their targets, I’m hoping our engineers can identify their origin,” said Marusya. “Once more crucial questions are answered.”
Alfhild studied a map on which Maksym had marked all the airfields suitable for F-16s and those the Russians had recently targeted.
“Your squadrons have got to outwit them by continuously moving between bases. After today it seems imperative you stop them taking runways out using ORLAN type drones or persistent cluster bombing.”
Maksym nodded. “Two incidents alone worried me. The first was when a squadron blocked Chayka Field’s main runway through the lead pilot’s error. The second was at Myrhorod Air Base when the Russians succeeded in destroying three of our MiG-29s and making that runway unusable for days… tragically with four casualties—”
“Three Night Witches, two dead and one who may never fly. I want to use my position within the Swedish Airforce to persuade Saab they need someone who knows Gripens and the Night Witches in Ukraine.”
“Do you mean yourself, Alfhild, or the trainers Major Ottillia Elmersson and Kapten Pernilla Eklund who were here in Dęblin? But even Swedish advisors must be a political decision.”
“I may be out of order,” said Marusya. “We have foreign nationals in the Witches, all of whom became Ukrainians. Isn’t that another solution?
“Nothing can be decided immediately. We need to talk to your squadron leaders, Marusya. It would be good if you were there too, Maksym. Then I must talk to people in Sweden, including my father. My dream is Night Witches flying Gripens, preferably at least one flight of Es.”
“I’m sure I can persuade Air Command West that Gripens can replace the Night Witches’ after F-16s arrive in early August.”
**
Sunday, July 14th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Siberian Husky: Image Credit: Aleksandr Abrosimov, Shutterstock
Estera and Polina found Anhelina Tkachuk exercising Quetzal, her Siberian Husky, around the agility course. They persuaded her to sit in a shady and secluded spot to talk.
“I’ve expected this,” said Anhelina. “It’s impossible to ignore the rumours about Blue Flight being wiped out. My cousin, Olha Tkachuk never returned from the exercise… nor did Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko, the Flight Leader. I’m right and just when we met again.”
Estera shook her head.
“I was with both Olha and Adriana last night and both were alive and wanting to see you. However, Olha was injured so needs to recover first.”
“Stop avoiding telling me how badly, I need to know, please.”
Polina reached out and took her hand.
“No worse than mine.” She placed Anhelina’s hand on her covered knee, gradually revealing her leg as she talked. “Her arm must be amputated, but the same doctors at Superhumans who gave me this amazing prosthetic leg will give Olha an equally incredible prosthetic arm. I will come with you when she is ready to receive visitors.”
“Thank you, Polina. I hope together we can persuade Olha to keep flying somehow. Will you come as well, Estera?”
“Of course.”
*
SW-4 Puszczyk – by Łukasz Golowanow, Konflikty.pl
Two nervous passengers waited by the Puszczyk wondering who their pilot would be.
Kalyna and Vasy appeared escorting Polina in her helicopter flight suit and clutching her helmet. Andriy whispered to Fedir before addressing the commanders.
“Rather than inconvenience your busy helicopter pilots, we can take the bus from Lutsk.”
“Pity as we arranged a fighter escort… to ensure our precious pilot was safe,” said Vasy.
A flight of MiG-29s took off behind the base and circled low over the field.
“You value your pilots it seems,” said Fedir.
“All pilots even slow-learners,” said Kalyna. “Some might say the cost in UAF lives seems minimal compared to the heavy casualties among front-line infantry. But every pilot takes years to train and each aircraft costs millions, so we all hurt with every loss.”
“A valuable lesson I won’t ever forget. Thank you,” said Andriy, climbing into the Puszczyk.
Another pilot, Odrija Kalniņa, also fully kitted took the controls.
“I’ll be close behind in Bravo Tiger,” said Polina, crossing to where Marusya was waiting in the larger helicopter.
As the aerial squad took off and headed south, Kalyna turned to Vasy.
“I hope those guys have learnt the real value of lives, and won’t think our escort is just for them when it’s mutual protection.”
**
Myrhorod Air Base, Poltava Oblast, Ukraine
Despite the crippling heat, First Lieutenant Andżelika Sówka and explosives expert Zofia Bukowska finished helping the Myrhorod ground crews remove the wreckage of Blue Flight MiG-29s from the main runway.
At the same time, any fragments that were possibly the mortal remains of the dead pilots were placed in two body bags, labelled either Sergeant Taisia Kovalchuk or Private Halyna Boyka. These were loaded onto two Golf Griffon’s stretchers for the flight back to Chayka Field.
Meanwhile, the K9 units, Alyona Jabłońska with Zeb her Bloodhound, and Kseniya Łaska with Nyx her Doberman found the missing mechanics had been injured. Fortunately, Doctor Yevhen Baran treated them and said they’d be on duty the next morning.
When he received the two reports, Major Illya Medved began to relax, relieved that Myrhorod Air Base was operational again.
“There’s only the wrecked MiG-29 blocking access to the furthest dispersal hardstands,” reported his Senior Chief Mechanic, Stepan Marchenko. “But we can do that ourselves, Major if these ladies wish to leave.”
“We are grateful for everyone’s assistance but need to get home,” said Kapitan Nadia Lysenko. “However, next week we will send a salvage vehicle to remove any parts that can be used for repairs by our amazing engineers. Please keep what you can.”
“I would love to come with you if you have room. Until those bodies are home, I don’t feel I’ve fulfilled my promise to Kapitan Pavlenko. Plus, I must see my daughter, Lieutenant Tamila Medved.” He paused and choked back on some words. “…never see again.”
“You’re welcome if you’re sure and someone can take over,” said Nadia. “We’ll leave when you’ve let your Number Two and flight leaders know. We’ll ensure you get back safely.”
Illya left and Nadia went to talk to Aleks Górski about ensuring that no drones were about.
Inside Alfa Tiger, they monitored the area.
“I noticed this base has a Yak-52B Trainer that can be a great Drone hunter,” said Nadia. “Their 52B has UB-32 pods for unguided rockets but can be easily adapted for our interceptors by their mechanics.”
File photo of a Ukrainian Yak-52. (Image via Militaryi)
Aleks checked various screens. “We have enough interceptors for one more swarm of ORLAN drones, but the Griffon has a spare stash of a dozen. Those could be adapted for the Yak if Xenia agrees.”
On the Griffon, Captain Xenia Ahlberg agreed to release the stash after discussing the plan with her co-pilot Lieutenant Acacia Berntsen and Flight Engineer Iryna Forsberg. Senior Chief Mechanic Stepan Marchenko understood how the interceptors would work with the Yak-52B.
When the Major returned he told Stepan to proceed.
Xenia welcomed Illya on board.
“We’re pleased you’re flying with our mixed crew including our two K9s.”
He sat in the seat next to Alyona and Zeb her Bloodhound rested his head on Illya’s knee.
“I presume the K9s are the honour guard for these late brave pilots we’re escorting home.”
**
Monday, July 15th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Lieutenant Tamila Medved followed Kapitan Mariyka Shevchuk through the trees after Green Flight’s night patrol. Even a slight breeze rustling through the leaves couldn’t banish the night heat.
Inside they were told Vasy would debrief them later, so they headed for the canteen hoping it was open for pre-dawn breakfast.
“I expect you’re looking forward to your grand opening of the first Zvenigora Restaurant on a Ukrainian airbase this evening.”
“Excited and apprehensive. I’m glad Sergei has been here to help over the last few weeks. We were ready when I left, but I’ll check before I rest… after eating.”
The four Green Flight pilots were served breakfast and were enjoying it when Vasy approached unseen.
“Don’t 2022 Night Witches Squadron salute senior officers?” asked a gruff male voice.
They stopped eating and sprung to attention, saluting Major Vasy Chayka and a male UAF major.
Tamila stared at her father, unsure how to react other than a speechless surprise. Instead, Vasy made formal introductions.
“Major Illya Medved, may I introduce Green Flight? Kapitan Mariyka Shevchuk, our test pilot and senior engineer, Private Inna Gavrilyuk, Private Svitlana Kravchenko, and Lieutenant Tamila Medved, one of our ace pilots… and of course, most importantly your daughter.” She paused and then added, “Tamila you may greet your father. Everyone else, if there’s nothing to report, you are debriefed and dismissed.”
Tamila kissed her father on the cheeks and then they embraced.
“What brings the Commander of Myrhorod Air Base here? Not to discipline your daughter for leaving an elite squadron to join a minor all-female squadron.”
“It was a risky decision. But it’s not why I’m here, although it was a chance to see one of my exceptional children. It was my duty to see the remains of two heroes brought here.”
“Our sisters Sergeant Taisia Kovalchuk and Private Halyna Boyka of Blue Flight. The tragic events were at Myrhorod. I should have remembered it was your squadron’s base.”
“Not when we get moved around. Last I heard you Night Witches were in Poland training on F-16s. Yet here you are flying MiG-29s from an unusual base. Your commanders have promised me a tour today with some interesting revelations.”
When Vasy reappeared with Kalyna and two familiar visitors, Tamila asked if she could join them.
“Green Flight has light duties today,” said Vasy. “So, sleep and meet us in the Command Centre at 0730 ready to drive us.”
Tamila saluted the five superior officers.
*
When she joined the same officers at 0900, Colonel Maksym Bondarenko was talking to her father.
“Illya, this is the only Ukrainian squadron to have flown Saab Gripens in combat. That was in the early months of the war before the Russians registered we had two flights.”
“Including Tamila?”
“I only flew a CF-18A Hornet in combat back then. But then trained on a Gripen C briefly in Poland.”
“So, given a choice of any jet,” asked her father, a Sukhoi Su-27 enthusiast. “Although, you may not have many hours in every one, what do you prefer?”
The Gripen E is among three fighter jets contending to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force fleet of CF-188 Hornets. Saab Photo
“Even though other squadrons want F-16s, I’d choose the Gripen E like most of my sisters,”
Colonel Alfhild Falkborg laughed.
“Good response, especially as I’m working hard to ensure this will be the first elite Ukrainian squadron flying Gripen Es in combat… unless the threat brings peace.”
Everyone applauded, although Tamila wondered if it was for Witches in Gripens, peace, but her gut said both.
“On that note, we should start on the tour,” said Kalyna. “If this heatwave continues, we can’t delay. We’ll take the Toyota if you follow me, please.”
Illya was amazed at the base in daylight. Weeds had grown through taxiways. The paint on the facades of the old terminal buildings was peeling. Signs of rust were everywhere.
Except on the well-kept aircraft, he’d occasionally seen.
The main runway needed repairs, although MiG-29s were designed to cope with Soviet-era strips. But wasn’t it distracting having a lively dog-agility arena on one side, and a showjumping training arena on the other?
“This doesn’t look like an elite airbase just a training area for K9s and police horses.”
“Are you sure that’s what enemy drones will see,” asked Maksym. “Ignore the smoke and mirrors.”
As he looked harder, Illya saw the shiny hinges on the rusty doors, behind which must be helicopter hangers. Hidden in the undergrowth were guards armed probably with MANPADS and rifles. Then he noted an unobtrusive radar on a high roof, and as they approached a hidden corner of a side building, an armoured truck with a missile array on its roof.
“That’s Saab’s MSHORAD,” said Alfhild. “A mobile shield that will transform ground-based air defence. Inside is an operator scanning the area with that mobile radar on the roof for threats. If she spots an intruder of any kind the base is alerted. If ordered MSHORAD launches its missiles.”
Suddenly a flight of MiG-29s took off from beyond the trees, flying low towards the north-east.
Kalyna jumped out of the truck and ran inside MSHORAD, followed by Illya. Inside she spoke to the operator.
“Did MSHORAD just spot an intruder, Aslög? Is that why the flight went to investigate?”
Aslög pointed at a slow-moving object on the screen.
“It’s now moving more like a ground vehicle. I’ll alert Estera and the Owls to intercept them.”
“Tell your partner to keep me informed, please.”
Outside, Kalyna had Tamila drive them back.
As they parked, Estera rang to say the guys in the truck had come from Dęblin, so she’d take them to the Command Centre.
“Impressive tour,” said Illya. “Your base would be hard to find and I guess your jets are dispersed among the trees, using local roads as runways… something we should do.”
“A tactic learnt from our Swedish friends.”
“Whose MSHORAD was impressive too… especially if they didn’t say they were coming.”
“Unless the Zvenigora Restaurant invited them for tonight’s opening.”
Estera showed a group of familiar and unfamiliar figures into the room.
Illya hesitated but Tamila rushed up to a stocky young man neither had seen since February 2022, his son, her brother.
“Ruslan, I never dreamt we’d meet here… and with tato. What brings you here?”
“It’s wonderful to see you. I knew you were a Night Witch. But tato here too?”
Illya hugged his two oldest children and then looked at Ruslan’s companions.
Vasy greeted three of them
“Brajan, Igor and Anatol, we know why you’re here. Unless I’m wrong Nadia, Aleks, and Mariyka will want to see you. Can you please find them, Estera?”
Maksym was talking with another man and Kalyna suddenly remembered him.
“Perun from the Sikorsky Brigade.”
“It was hard finding the Night Witches, but your Polish friends helped us, We hope you can help. Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces need your best helicopter pilot. Someone to fly a crack unit behind enemy lines on a secret mission.”
Maksym chuckled.
“They asked the Sikorsky Brigade and you remembered a flight in a Tiger. You’re after Nadia—”
“Unless you’ve someone better at sneaking in low and fast?”
At that moment Nadia, Aleks, and Mariyka entered the Command Centre and registered the gathering. Nadia’s eyes flicked from Brajan to Perun.
“This has to be about a helicopter.” She glanced at the Special Forces badges and Anatol before adding, “That needs modifying for a mission… plus a crazy crew.”
Perun nodded but Kalyna looked at the time.
“However, we must talk later when we have more time for what sounds crucial. We have a restaurant opening and movie screening to attend now and you’re all invited.”
All the staff from Dęblin were there to ensure the launch went smoothly. Agnieszka had closed the Polish branch and brought Sabina and Tomas to assist her, although Sergei was now the Chayka Field manager, assisted by Mariyka when she could escape her Night Witch duties.
Every table was booked in advance, but Sergei and Agnieszka had catered for extra guests. Mariyka and her sister, Sabina showed the customers to their seats with the evening’s menu and reminded them that the monthly movie ‘Megan Leavey’ would be screened with dessert and coffee.
The film poster for the film Megan Leavey. Copyright owner: Bleecker Street. Source: www.RottenTomatoes.com.
In front of the movie poster, the K9 handlers and their dogs were honoured with a special area, and their guests included friends made during the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital rescue. Their fellow Night Owls were supporting them from the next table and Estera had invited her partner Aslög, while Geralt was with Chae-Yeong, and her Korean crew.
Mariyka and Sergei were pleased to see so many relationships had blossomed since their tentative first steps.
“It’s amazing how Tamila and her father met here and now her brother has arrived,” said Mariyka. “But I couldn’t work out what those Special Forces guys wanted, although Nadia suggested something to do with modifying a helicopter. “
“Is that why Anatol is here?” asked Sergei. “I thought you invited him to discuss the drone interceptor.”
“I did. But I fear something else is more important. He’s sitting with Janina Patriksson and some of the helicopter pilots including Nadia and Aleks.”
*
“Shouldn’t we be talking with those helicopter guys, Lieutenant?” asked Danylo, one of Ruslan’s comrades.
“We’ll get our chance later as Major Chayka promised. I want to know how this war is affecting our flyers. Is it always like this?”
Illya wasn’t sure if the Special Ops officer was suggesting flyers had it easy. Tamila wasn’t amused.
“Well, two of my sister pilots were blown up on Saturday and another will lose her arm but choose to fly with a prosthetic limb. One of my father’s mechanics got third-degree burns saving the third pilot’s life. I accept that fighting in the conditions you face your casualties are worse, but like you, we risk our lives every day we fly.”
Ruslan leapt to her defense.
“You don’t realise how many years my sister studied to be a pilot… the same as we did to qualify for special ops. Nor how many flight hours she notched up to just get her wings. I know how many drones and rockets she’s stopped from destroying innocent people’s homes. She’s been shot down yet ensured her jet missed houses… and got injured.”
“If anyone wants to point a finger,” said Illya. “Choose the politician who got a bloody ear from an assassin’s bullet and objects to every dollar of help we receive.”
The Lieutenant stood and went round the table, saluted Tamila and shook her hand.
“I’m sorry if I showed any disrespect to the brave Night Witches or any squadron, Major Medved.” Then he saluted Illya.
“We better eat after that discussion,” said Danylo. “I never thought I’d eat a traditional meal like this in such an unusual venue. I felt we were walking underground, yet it’s light.”
Tamila laughed.
“This was the original airport’s deepest level, but with mirrored sun shafts, the design brings daylight, even moonlight, down here. We’re deep enough for this to be our air-raid shelter.”
“Although from outside appearances,” said Illya. “Nobody would think this was a functioning airbase, especially with the short runway and overgrown taxiways.”
“Where are the aircraft? You must have fifty pilots here, Tamila,” said her brother.
“When we’re at full strength. The jets are hidden in the woodland and the helicopter hangars are where the departures were and further around the ground floor.”
“Whoever created Chayka Field thought of everything,” said Illya.
*
As dessert was being served, Mariyka moved to the end of the restaurant, where a movie screen was visible from every table. She switched on the wireless microphone linked to the restaurant’s sound system.
“We are pleased to see so many friends here to celebrate the opening of this special Zvenigora Restaurant at Chayka Field. And new faces, you are welcome too. This is also the celebration of the completion of this unusual airbase, which is intentionally deceptive on the outside… much like us Night Witches.”
Loud cheers echoed around the restaurant.
“Before I proceed to the highlight of the evening, I must thank my aunt, Agnieszka Shevchuk who with my late mother, Danuta Shevchuk created the first two Zvenigora Restaurants in Dęblin and Lviv. For tonight’s delicious meal, my aunt and her team came from Dęblin to cater for us all.”
Agnieszka, Sabrina, Tomas and Sergei came forward to applause and cheers.
“Now, when anyone arrives by road here, the first thing they notice is our dog agility arena and our K9 teams seated here—”
“And our Spanish horses and riders,” said Aaron loudly enough to raise a fair bit of laughter.
“I forgot the press was here… just the tame ones like Aaron Garcia, Carita Forsström, and Jane Wetherby. Only favourable reports as always, please. Remember our K9s are not just cute but detect explosives. And as with the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital tragedy, they are among the brave rescuers. Some they found are with us tonight.”
More cheering and clapping.
“Appropriately our movie tonight is ‘Megan Leavey’ the 2017 film about a real US Marine K9 handler and her military working dog, Rex. I hope you enjoy this month’s film.”
Sergei dimmed the lights and rolled the movie.
*
The dogs barked their approval as ‘Megan Leavey’ ended.
“We’re grateful your dogs are so versatile,” said Doctor Avenlosky. “They gave us life and now hope.”
Writing Wings 