Another month has passed, so it’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post, and an opportunity to plan another writing adventure.
First, it’s almost two months since I submitted my Snowdon Shadows police procedural, Fevered Fuse, to London-based publisher Joffe Books, and I’m still waiting for an answer. I’m beginning to suspect a rejection is awaiting me when the three-month deadline is reached in early August. At least I’m checking out other publishers by listening to a few of their authors’ books,
However, as I wait, I’m distracting myself by working on draft 6 of ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in my Snowdon Shadows series. This revision primarily involves changing the POVs from multiple 3rd Person to Sparkle Anwyl’s 1st person, an interesting challenge as Sparkle isn’t in every scene.
I have yet to write another episode of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights. The last one was Eagle’s Flight, and the next is provisionally called ‘Dispersal and Concealment’, and picks up on something discussed in Eagle’s Flight. Obviously, I’m also still following the news from Ukraine.
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
**
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!
July 2 question – Is there a genre you haven’t tried writing in yet that you really want to try? If so, do you plan on trying it?
This may be hypothetical for me, given that I have so many drafts to revise. There are also others that I must accept as remaining abandoned. Most of those to revise fall under the Crime & Mystery genre, although there is one that would be classed as Science Fantasy, Gossamer Flames. Also, Freedom Flights starts in 1944, and although the current episodes are Present Day, it would be classified as Historical Fiction… especially if I keep developing the 1944-2014 chapters.
However, I have written Fantasy and Science Fiction stories, an Alternative History, and a few Children’s short pieces, all of which are unlikely to be revised. I even started a Romance novel on the international tennis circuit. Checking out genre lists, such as Reedsy’s The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 35 Popular Genres, Explained, or Wikipedia’s List of writing genres, I realise there are quite a few genres I’ve missed attempting.
Two stand out: Horror and Erotica. A few of my shorts have had horrific elements, and one reviewer of Spiral of Hooves was unable to finish reading because of the “sexual scenes”.
Time to attempt writing an Erotic Horror… featuring a female vampire with strange fetishes. Or is that a ‘miss-stake’?
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!
Episode 38 of Freedom Flights sees the return to Chayka Field of an unexpected supporter with some new recruits, and who is met by a character who will remain forever. There’s also a hint or two about events in the next episode.
I will continue trying to foreshadow future incidents without making my characters react as if they know what will happen in 2025.
Until a just and lasting peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom, with too many losing their lives. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons continue to reach the country, despite what some leaders threaten. Assistance must arrive on time to change their fortunes and prepare for the genuine peace that must come soon.
Each day, I worry about the Middle East conflict escalating, not only because it could threaten many of us globally, but also as it would shift the attention and support away from Ukraine, when peace negotiations could be achievable.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Teniente Adelita Palomo grinned as she finished reading on her cellphone and handed it to her friend, Capitán Conchita Gutiérrez.
“Check out your guy’s feature on Ukrainian medevacs in Vuelo del Águila. As you expected, it’s excellent, and he suggests that readers with expertise volunteer, especially those who speak Ukrainian.”
To ensure best access to patients, the CH-146 cabin is configured to cross-load stretchers. Chris Thatcher Photo
Conchita took the phone and checked out the article by Aaron Garcia.
“As you say, ‘excellent’ and accurate. Not only does he mention the Night Witches, but he also sneaks us in by mentioning ‘the defensive role of Tiger Charlie flown by pilot, Capitán Gutiérrez & her co-pilot, Teniente Palomo’. We need to make a translation from Spanish for everyone else.”
She waved Major Kalyna Chayka over and explained the invaluable coverage to her and their plan to translate it.
“Good idea,” said Kalyna, after she’d scanned the piece. “I only know enough Spanish to now want to read your translation. Let me have it as soon as you can, and we’ll ensure everyone can see it. And not just our medevac team.”
“A couple in the squadron understand Spanish,” said Adelita. “We’ll let them know so they can spread the news.”
Shortly after Kalyna returned to the group she had come from, Mariyka Shevchuk announced the evening’s film from beside the restaurant’s screen.
“Tonight, we are screening two documentaries from the Ukrainian director, Alisa Kovalenko, starting with ‘We Will Not Fade Away’, a study of five Ukrainian teens and their brief escape from war on an expedition to the Himalayas. Filming took three years from 2019, mainly in Donbas, until the Russian invasion changed everything. Alisa went to fight on the front lines for four months before completing this documentary, then turned new footage from the frontlines into the film ‘My Dear Theo’, a video diary for her young son, which is our second screening after a brief interval.”
Mariyka paused before continuing, “ In 2023, Alisa said the first documentary ‘is not about the expedition, it’s not about the mountains or adventure therapy, it’s actually about the power of dreams and how you can still believe in your dreams when you are living in this kind of depressing place that isn’t very friendly to you and isn’t helping you to realise your goals. But you keep believing, and you put a lot of light in the middle of the darkness”.
The lights dimmed, and ‘We Will Not Fade Away’ started.
Monday, October 21st – Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
The room in the Academy was packed for the speech by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was visiting Ukraine for the fourth time. This visit was crucial amid some Russian battlefield gains and with the imminent US election in two weeks. Everyone was aware that if Donald Trump were elected president, he had already suggested that he would be more reluctant than President Biden to continue to support Ukraine, as he had promised to end the war swiftly, potentially on terms favourable to Moscow. This would deprive Kyiv of its most powerful military and financial backer.
Five of the Night Witches’ supportive journalists were seated together near the rear behind all the university students, professors, and government representatives.
“Can Lloyd Astin reassure Ukrainians that the US will continue its support?” asked Darina Kearney. “Or are his hands tied?”
“I’d guess the impending election will temper what he says,” said her sister, Clodagh, co-host of the Canadian podcast Kearney Encounter.
“Most likely,” added Jane Wetherby, with her Anglo-Canadian perspective. “However, I believe he’ll make veiled references to ongoing US support.”
“While praising the ongoing bravery and ingenuity of Ukrainians,” concluded Carita Forsström, reporting for Swedish Aero News.
Some late arrivals sneaked in quietly, including a familiar but unexpected colleague. Spanish journalist Aaron Garcia noticed and managed to obtain a seat next to them.
“I’ll explain later why I’m back in Ukraine… after Lloyd Austin has spoken.”
Hennadii Nadolenko, the Director of the Academy, introduced the US Defence Secretary, who then began his speech, thanking the Director and others who had made his visit possible. He said he would talk about Ukraine’s just war of self-defence and the road ahead, telling those who doubted the truth behind the struggle to ‘come to Kyiv’.
He continued by saying one must not forget how the war began.
“For years, Putin had harassed and assaulted the independent nation-state of Ukraine. On February 24, 2022, Putin crossed the line into an all-out invasion. And the Kremlin started the largest war in Europe since World War II. Now, Putin’s war of choice poses fundamental questions to every government and every person who seeks a decent and secure world.”
After posing and answering the questions, Lloyd Austin emphasised the importance of America and allies in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, with clear results as he explained.
“Now, this invasion hasn’t gone the way that the Kremlin planned. After 970 days of war, Putin has not achieved one single strategic objective. Not one. President Zelenskyy didn’t flee. Kyiv didn’t fall. And Ukraine didn’t fold.”
The five colleagues nodded as he addressed the immense price Russia had paid, especially in terms of lives. But he also emphasised the cruel cost for Ukraine.
“Now, Ukraine has suffered terribly at Putin’s hands. Since February 2022, according to the U.N., Russian forces have killed more than 11,000 Ukrainian civilians in verified civilian casualty incidents. And that includes more than 600 children. The U.N. says that Putin’s forces have bombed more than 250 Ukrainian schools and hospitals. And they’ve wrecked treasured sites of Ukrainian history, culture, and memory. But the Kremlin’s malice has not broken Ukraine’s spirit. Ukraine stands unbowed — and strengthened.”
When he finished describing Ukrainian resistance, and added that, “Ukraine’s defenders have brought inspiration to the world — and glory to Ukraine”, the audience responded enthusiastically.
‘Slava Ukraini!’
Once the shouts of the salute had died down, Lloyd Austin spoke about what America and the coalition of 50 countries in the Ukraine Defence Contact Group were doing to oppose Putin’s aggression.
“For anyone who thinks that American leadership is expensive — well, consider the price of American retreat,” he said after talking about the 58 billion dollars spent since February 2022. “In the face of aggression, the price of principle is always dwarfed by the cost of capitulation. Our allies and partners know that. And I’ve been proud to watch the pro-Ukraine coalition dig deep.”
Knowing how the Night Witches were themselves a coalition of various nationalities, the five colleagues nodded in agreement, especially as Austin outlined the support from various countries.
He emphasised the urgency of the situation, culminating in adding, “I know that the Kremlin’s war is a nightmare from which the Ukrainian people are trying to awake. But we should all understand that Putin’s assault is a warning. It is a sneak preview of a world built by tyrants and thugs — a chaotic, violent world carved into spheres of influence; a world where bullies trample their smaller neighbors; and a world where aggressors force free people to live in fear.”
As Jane Wetherby had predicted, the Defence Secretary explained America’s position.
“And make no mistake. The United States does not seek war with Russia. And even as Putin makes profoundly reckless and dangerous threats about nuclear war, we will continue to behave with the responsibility that the world rightly demands of a nuclear-armed state.
So, the United States will uphold our sworn NATO obligations. The United States will defend every inch of NATO territory. And the United States will get Ukraine what it needs to fight for its survival and security.”
The audience applauded, and when the clapping subsided, he focused on the central defenders, saying, “Ukraine does not belong to Putin. Ukraine belongs to the Ukrainian people. And Moscow will never prevail in Ukraine.”
Building to a fitting climax.
“Ukraine has chosen the course of courage. And so have we. My friends, you walk a hard road. But you do not walk it alone. Thank you. God bless you. And may God bless all who fight to defend freedom.”
Lloyd Austin’s speech was received with a standing ovation and enthusiastic cheering.
*
After obtaining some additional interviews with key participants, the five journalists found a coffee shop near the Academy. Once they had drinks and snacks, they found a table where they could discuss Lloyd Austin’s address.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomes US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin before their meeting in Kyiv on October 21, 2024. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Reuters
“A welcome contribution, but it won’t relieve our Ukrainian forces’ needs during a drawn-out conflict on multiple fronts,” replied Clodagh Kearney. “Darina and I will analyse that in our next podcast.”
Her sister nodded and then added, “Kearney Encounter will be expected to express an opinion before the election… probably live from Kyiv. If any of you would like to be guests, our followers would find your viewpoint fascinating.”
At first, nobody volunteered, but they all nodded in agreement. After a silence filled with drinking and munching, Carita Forsström spoke up.
“It would make a change for me. Count on my appearance. It offers me a different challenge from writing online articles for Swedish Aero News. Normally, I can perfect the pieces before submitting. And recording Austin’s presentation gives me time to assess what he said.”
“You mean like this quote,” said Jane, playing an extract:
‘America’s security demands that we stand up to Putin’s aggression. Ukraine matters to U.S. security for four blunt reasons. Putin’s war threatens European security. Putin’s war challenges our NATO allies. Putin’s war attacks our shared values. And Putin’s war is a frontal assault on the rules-based international order that keeps us all safe.’
“Exactly,” said Carita. “That alone answers all those who question why the West must support Ukraine.”
“Too many politicians spout Russia’s lies,” said Aaron Garcia. “That’s what I was trying to do with my Spanish readers. As a result of my first article, there were invaluable responses. I’m going to Poland tomorrow but will return shortly… possibly to our favourite squadron.”
Everyone grinned, and Jane said, “I will probably see you there then, as I’m going to that base with Carita. When we were told, ‘Ukrainian factories are now pumping out some of the best UAVs in the world, and experienced Ukrainian air defenders are protecting their forces and their families,’ I remembered our innovative and brave Night Witches.”
**
Saturday, October 26th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Sergeant Marusya Dudziarz drove the base’s minibus around to the rear of the main building. Her four passengers climbed out and were greeted by First Lieutenants Andżelika and Estera Sówka, and Chief Paramedic Osinniy.
Aaron Garcia embraced the trio before introducing his three compatriots.
“As emailed to you, Andżelika, these Spanish ladies are the volunteers for the Night Witches.” In turn, he introduced them: “Katiuska Rebeca Meléndez and her K9, Treka, are an experienced search and rescue team. Aitana Salcedo and Jacinta Garcia are qualified paramedics. There were three male volunteers, so I found them a posting with your former battalion, Osinniy.”
“Smart move,” said the Chief Paramedic. “Especially if they’re experienced.”
“The majors said to meet in the canteen,” said Marusya. “There may be others there, not on duty… like those back from dawn patrols.”
*
Lieutenant Polina Moroz was waiting for Marusya when they arrived in the canteen.
“Was driving the bus a relaxing change from co-piloting our Tiger?”
“No way. Lutsk gets busy when the train from Poland gets in. Flying there’s no aerial traffic, unless you count Russian missiles and drones on the night shift.”
Everyone chuckled.
Aaron noted that the Chayka majors had entered and were gesturing at a large table that was free.
“Do you want to join us, Marusya… Polina?”
“No thanks,” said Polina. “We need to eat quickly and then run our pre-flight checks before this evening’s patrol.”
The others joined Kalyna and Vasy at the large table, and Aaron introduced the new volunteers as they sat down.
“You’ve done us proud, Aaron,” said Kalyna. “We shouldn’t be surprised after your inspirational article in Vuelo del Águila.”
Jacinta hugged him enthusiastically, kissing him on the cheeks.
At that moment, Capitán Conchita Gutiérrez appeared in the doorway with her co-pilot Teniente Adelita Palomo. Conchita glowered at Aaron as he kissed the younger woman.
She stormed over and slapped Aaron. Then she turned to Jacinta and screamed.
“Who are you to be molesting my man. You didn’t expect me to turn up so soon…”
“I’m his sister, Jacinta… and a volunteer paramedic. You must be the fearless Conchita. My brother talks about you all the time.”
The pilot looked stunned and unsure how to respond. Aaron saved her by explaining.
“Judged understandably by my past behaviour. Please, trust me next time and believe when I say this is my only sister. Our other siblings are all macho brothers.” He turned to the majors. “Any key developments since I left last month?”
The cousins glanced at each other, and Vasy answered.
“On the day you left, Thursday, September 26th, Nadia Lysenko escaped from Kursk with Dasha Isakova in a captured Russian fighter jet. Another French helicopter pilot with Ukrainian ancestry, Lieutenant Cateline Ivanova, joined us. Otherwise, the training on NATO jets continues at Dęblin in Poland-”
“And the Russians continue to launch missiles, rockets, and drones incessantly almost every night, and often in the day,” added Kalyna. “Of course, they claim they’re targeting military objectives, despite hitting mainly civilian targets. Meanwhile, we need to develop our defensive strategy. Our jets can only leapfrog between bases when they’re not hidden here.”
Jane Wetherby and Carita Forsström came into the canteen, chatting to some ground crew. They left their chat when they saw the Spanish gathering and headed over.
“Now we understand, Aaron, why you came here via Poland,” said Jane. “At least, you seem to be justified in not joining us for the Kearney Encounter.”
He allowed the volunteers to introduce themselves after he’d told them who Jane and Carita worked for.
As the canteen filled with pilots and ground crew, many came over to thank Aaron for the article in Vuelo del Águila, which had been translated into Ukrainian and English. Nadia Lysenko and Aleks Górski were among the last and pulled up chairs to join the group.
“I’m so glad you made it back, Nadia,” said Aaron. “I worried about you and the others in Kursk when the rumours about ruthless North Koreans arriving in Russia began to circulate.”
“I only encountered vicious Russians,” replied Nadia. “However, Ukrainian military intelligence officially proved the rumours as fact on Wednesday. The first North Korean soldiers should be deployed in Kursk Oblast over this weekend.”
“I pray our forces continue to hold ground captured around Sudzha,” said Aleks. “We need the ongoing morale boost in the current climate.”
Everyone agreed in gestures and words. Then the Spanish recruits discussed their duties with the officers while the journalists aired their fears about the November 5th U.S. presidential vote.
“I fear the former Republican president, Donald Trump, being re-elected,” said Jane. “From both a Canadian and a European perspective, he proved dangerous in his first term.”
“It’s proving to be a closer race than expected,” said Aaron. “Even after President Biden withdrew, making Vice President Kamala Harris the Democratic candidate. After hearing their Defence Secretary lay out the Administration’s strategy for Ukraine, her election should be best for Ukraine and Europe.”
“Especially as Trump was antagonistic towards NATO last time, calling it ‘obsolete’. He might be claiming to end this war in 24 hours, but in whose favour?” asked Carita. “Moscow’s? Russia is already interfering in our elections. Will Moldova keep its pro-West president on November 3rd? Will Trump be inaugurated in January?
“He blames NATO countries for expecting the US to defend them,” said Jane. “Although some of those, such as Britain, Canada, Germany, Poland, and France, fought alongside the US in the Global War on Terrorism.”
“That was a global military campaign started by the Republican Bush Administration following the September 11 attacks in 2001,” said Nadia. “I had friends from the French forces in Afghanistan, some of whom lost friends, even partners. Let’s pray this war doesn’t escalate… although the casualties are already too horrific.”
The table went quiet, and the silence spread as everyone knew someone who had given their life for Ukraine’s peace and freedom.
It’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post, and an opportunity to reflect on the dawn of my book adventure.
First, it’s just a month since I submitted my Snowdon Shadows police procedural, Fevered Fuse, to London-based publisher Joffe Books. Not surprisingly, I’m still waiting for the publisher to answer. I’ve yet to start rewriting ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in my Snowdon Shadows series, but I have written another episode of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights – Strategy and Tactics.
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
**
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!
June 4 question – What were some books that impacted you as a child or young adult?
My distant memory of books I read in my childhood throws up a few titles that have endured.
Initially, I had to research Fingerling, whom I vaguely recalled was a gnome in the illustrations. Actually, his original name is Pinkeltje, and he’s “a fictional character from the eponymous children’s book series by the Dutch writer Dick Laan. Pinkeltje is a white-bearded gnome and wears a pointed hat and is as big as a pinky finger, hence his name, meaning “fingerling” (literally “little pinky”) in Dutch.” I’m unsure how many English translations of the original twenty-nine books my parents bought for my siblings and me, but I remember enjoying a few.
However, I vividly remember devouring The Story of Ferdinand (1936), “the best-known work by the American author Munro Leaf. Illustrated by Robert Lawson…” This wonderful children’s book tells “the story of a bull who would rather smell flowers than fight in bullfights. He sits in the middle of the bull ring, failing to take heed of any of the provocations of the matador and others to fight.” I adored the illustrations and the story even more, especially as the ending felt perfect, and it probably had an impact on my storytelling. I’m certain the fact that my Chilean grandmother had a Pekinese called Ferdie, aka Ferdinand, added to the appeal. Perhaps, he was named after the bull.
As I recall my childhood, there are other books, like A.A. Milne’s stories, especially those about Winnie the Pooh, many of Beatrix Potter’s stories, and another favourite, The Happy Lion, which I received on my birthday, being a Leo. This 1954 children’s picture book by Louise Fatio, illustrated by Roger Duvoisin, “follows a Happy Lion in France who, after escaping the small zoo where he lives, is surprised that people, who loved visiting him there, are now scared of him.”
I still have one of the books that I read and loved as a child, George Brooksbank’s ‘Old Mr Fox’. With a cover by celebrated Scottish wildlife artist Archibald Thorburn, this was my father’s copy, which he was given in 1932 for Christmas, the same year the book was published. This treasured book inspired me to write my first short story… about a fox running free.
C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narniafed my passion for fantasy, which became the first genre I embraced in my writing. I read all the books in the series, some numerous times, and again, I still have the set. Lewis was the first of the Inklings, whose works I read fervently. Two more were later discoveries.
I could list other books I read as a child, but none were truly influential until, in my teens, I added Science Fiction to my reading addiction. The authors included Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, Robert Heinlein, Douglas Adams, Philip J. Farmer, Harry Harrison, Karl Vonnegut, Frank Herbert, Harry Harrison, Poul Anderson, …and the list goes on. Imagine my surprise when I found Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonriders of Pern series crossed from engrossing fantasy into space, and became gripping Science Fiction.
Inkling three would be Owen Barfield, but not until I was in my twenties. Before then, though, for me, there was only one masterful Inkling.
My favourite author, even now, is J.R.R. Tolkien, whom I first discovered when I read his essay based on his lecture “Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics“. So, reading “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” came a few months later. I read the whole of “The Lord of the Rings” over one very long weekend when I was at Eton College in 1969, age 16. I still have the three hardback copies with their detailed fold-out maps.
Although most of these books had some influence on my writing, Tolkien’s works had a much greater impact. Ironically, my first effective creative writing teacher, the poet and writer Roger Woddis, said my writing was becoming ‘purple prose’ as I wanted to imitate Tolkien. Fortunately, I restrained myself from writing ‘purple prose’ while improving. I also read more books as I grew older. But that’s another chapter.
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!
Episode 37 of Freedom Flights concludes the Polish scenes, so the next episode sees the return to Chayka Field of an unexpected supporter with some new recruits and is met by a character who will remain forever.
I will continue trying to foreshadow future incidents without making my characters react as if they know what will happen in 2025.
Until a just and lasting peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom, with too many losing their lives. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons continue to reach the country, despite what some leaders threaten. Assistance must arrive on time to change their fortunes and prepare for the genuine peace that must come soon.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 37 – Strategy and Tactics
2024
Sunday, September 29th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
Alongside the acquired Sukhoi Su-30SM, the group of pilots gathered without the restraints of secrecy. Major Arne Östberg climbed into the cockpit and was joined by Capitaine Dasha Isakova, who had the most flight hours in this Flanker-H. He studied the layout of the controls, checking with Dasha that he had noted them correctly.
“Impressive, I took a little longer back at Kursk, even though I’d flown its predecessor in the US,” said Dasha.
“As had I. But I admit, as a test pilot, I’ve flown a few airframes, which helps. I hope you trust me and Raphaëlle to put this Flanker through its paces… against NATO opposition. I suspect she’ll hold her own as a 4+ generation fighter.”
“She should… with you two piloting her.”
Dasha climbed down, and Commandant Raphaëlle Balode replaced her in the cockpit.
“Ever flown one of these?” asked Arne.
“No. Just sat in this one with Éliane, studying the layout and the instruments. We’ve permission to take her up, once the tower gives us clearance.”
“After we do the pre-flight check… but do you know if the ground crew did theirs?”
“All our jet’s checks and for the other two, who should follow us up. But as neither of us has flown this type of airframe, we need to get ahead, Major.”
The Sukhoi Su-30SM crew stole some airtime from the others, checking out the training range well ahead of them.
Capitaine Aline Bonheur and the crew of the NH90 Caïman flew all the observers to the observation area overlooking the range. Once again, Kapitan Aleks Górski was given a judging role alongside Dasha, Kapitan Nadia Lysenko and Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko. Others who came along had become the expert witnesses to how the Sukhoi Su-30SM performed.
As the senior referee and the Flanker’s original pilot, Dasha outlined the rules of the DACT exercise, then closed with the teams.
“Arne and Raphaëlle piloting the Sukhoi Su-30SM are in the Red Air aggressor-training role, simulating a Russian threat, against Éliane and Callum in the Mirage 2000-B and Pernilla and Lyana in a Gripen JAS 39F defending as Blue Air. However, Blue Air is flying with a normal weapons loadout for training purposes in peacetime mode.”
“For those unaware of how this DACT is judged,” said Colonel Jason Ayers, “I’ll explain. All three aircraft have ACMI pods and instruments for Air Combat Manoeuvring Instrumentation monitoring, which tracks, records, and analyses aircraft data during air combat training. Additional instruments are installed on Sierra to assist the referees.”
Then Dasha radioed the three jets. “Blue Air take up a defensive position. Red Air, prepare to attack in 30 seconds.”
Arne immediately put the Flanker into a steep climb, although warned by Raphaëlle that the Mirage climbed faster.
“But her ceiling is not as good,” she added.
However, after 30 seconds, Group Captain Callum McNeilly fired three of the French jet’s MBDA MICA missiles, and Captain Lyana Rudenko launched two AIM-132 ASRAAM missiles from the Swedish plane. Both Blue defenders then anticipated Red’s missile response, so they dived towards the ground, each followed by three Vympel R-73 short-range IR-homing air-to-air missiles. The defending jets evaded the six Vympels by flying close to the ground and past the wrecked tanks littering the range, so the missiles impacted on these decoy targets.
Meanwhile, Arne was taking evasive action using the Sukhoi’s steerable thrusters for super-maneuvrability, while Raphaëlle activated the two SAP-518 jamming pods on the wingtips, blocking the five incoming missiles’ guidance. He then put the Flanker into a dive towards the Gripen F, the somewhat slower of the Blue jets. As soon as he closed on the familiar target, Kapten Pernilla Eklund reacted using the jet’s canard and delta wing configuration to weave an agile trajectory around them.
“Raphaëlle, watch out for the Mirage attacking from behind. That Gripen is designed to assist other jets’ attacks… and to jam us.”
“When the Mirage closes, I’ll launch missiles while you perform a cobra manoeuvre. Éliane might not expect that.”
Dasha and Nadia recognised the move, having employed it in Kursk. However, remembering Dasha’s escape account, Capitaine Éliane Nowicki expected it as well and used the Mirage’s delta wing to make a tight turn and pull behind the Sukhoi again. As the pursuing missiles closed on the Mirage, Éliane used the French jet’s superior speed to dive past the Flanker so closely that the missiles switched target.
Arne made another manoeuvre and broke their own missiles’ infrared homing lock. Then he climbed away from the Blue jets and broadcast a message to everyone while circling the range.
“Flying this Sukhoi Su-30SM during this exercise has made me aware of many of its capabilities. There’s no sense in continuing, but what do others feel?”
Nobody disagreed with terminating the DACT exercise, but Lyana suggested it was worth their chief maintainers inspecting the Flanker, in part to identify vulnerabilities.
“The immediate weakness that I noted at Khalino,” said Dasha, “Was spare parts dependence, especially for the French-produced Thales holographic Head-Up Display 3022 system. I learnt that excessive flight hours and cost-cutting maintenance undermine the jets’ reliability.”
“Our maintainers could identify which systems are at risk,” said Éliane.
“I also propose another test,” said Arne. “By all accounts, the Russians launch their attacks in their secure airspace, using beyond-visual-range missiles. These can be launched from ranges around 40 kilometres or beyond. So, we need to test how effectively the Mirage-2000-5F and Gripen E can detect those missiles.”
“Excellent suggestion, Arne, but return to base first,” said Colonel Alfhild Falkborg. “We’ll need to make arrangements to run such long-range tests with the Polish Air Force. However, given our contacts, permission is sure to be granted.”
Agnieszka welcomed the Night Witches and their friends to the Zvenigora, then led them to their usual tables.
“Fortunately, my niece, Mariyka, warned us to expect extra guests this evening. It’s also good to see some familiar visitors, although you don’t come often enough… from Sweden.”
Alfhild smiled, apologised, and then introduced Arne.
“And you know Major Ottillia Elmersson and Kapten Pernilla Eklund. I suspect everyone else has been here more recently.”
As there were so many in the group, they were shown to two long tables and given the day’s menu. Dasha and Nadia ensured that those who needed to discuss the Sukhoi Su-30SM confidentially sat together. The others were seated to shield that conversation from other tables.
“It was impressive how quickly your UAF officials managed to obtain permission from Poland for this afternoon’s radar test,” said Arne. “I felt the tests were conclusive, since the radars in both the Mirage 2000-5Fs and the Gripen Es detected every long-range missile launched by the Sukhoi Su-30SM. What did you all think?”
There was general agreement, although Alfhild made an observation.
“The squadron’s eight Gripen Cs were all intended to be decommissioned until some of us in the Swedish Air Force intervened and proposed they be supplied to Ukraine.” Ottillia and Pernilla smiled knowingly. “Therefore, their radars might need to be upgraded. I’m sure Saab will assist with that, especially as the Gripen was designed to integrate newly developed equipment as technology advances.”
“Until that happens,” said Ottillia. “Their existing radar will still detect incoming missiles launched at a considerable distance, certainly from just inside Russia, where Russian pilots feel safe.”
Arne nodded in agreement and then spoke.
“The Sukhoi Su-30SM may be the best Russian 4+ generation fighter jet you are facing in this war, but it isn’t invulnerable, as today’s exercises have demonstrated. We’ve identified its weaknesses, especially against some NATO fighters. A few have been shot down, although it still presents a formidable foe.”
He paused as food orders were taken. A short while later, he continued.
“We are now in a position to develop invaluable strategies for pilots who face this Flanker-H. On closer technical examination, we should be able to identify the most vulnerable areas.”
“Useful for ground forces, too,” said Master Engineer Anatol Krakarth. “A well-directed drone could do considerable damage. However, is this Sukhoi Su-30SM vulnerable when parts wear out?”
“I mentioned that to Kalyna and Vasy earlier,” said Alfhild. “They mentioned UAF had some suitable Sukhoi spare parts that were on a helicopter a defecting Russian pilot landed in Ukraine.”
“I remember that incident,” said Adriana. “Any specifically for a Flanker won’t have been used on our Su-27s… hopefully.”
“And where the parts are identical, they should be available from UAF stores,” said Dasha. “Thinking back to when this Sukhoi Su-30SM was spotted in Eastern Ukraine, the similarity to the Su-27 makes it easier to explain its existence.”
“Crafty. Another defection,” suggested Nadia, just as their food arrived.
Serious conversation gave way to casual chatter and eating pleasure. For a while, it was a chance for couples to reunite and for new relationships to develop. Brajan Rudawski was overjoyed that Nadia had escaped from Russia, while Igor Dubicki could finally relax with Aleks. After brief encounters tied to military priorities, Callum and Aline were moving beyond winks and brushed hands.
Until the Sukhoi Su-30SM interrupted the evening again.
“We need to address the long term,” said Jason, slowly ending his whispered chat with Lyana. “Plans to make a better version in Ukraine. Is that realistic? We began discussing that at Myrhorod Air Base… although most of you weren’t there.”
“Exactly,” said Callum. “Basically, the idea was that Ukraine’s most trusted squadron commanders and technical advisors, with their staunchest allies, should discuss developing a superior version of the Sukhoi Su-30SM over the next few years.”
“However, although Ukraine has a first-rate aviation tradition,” replied Alfhild. “Even partnering with Saab, we’re talking about a major development programme costing billions of Euros, except rebuilding the country is the priority after winning the war. Furthermore, all the major countries are now involved in developing a sixth-generation fighter.”
“I’d agree,” said Raphaëlle. “Dassault Aviation is already the prime contractor for the New Generation Fighter, with Airbus as the main partner, and then companies from other countries, such as France, Germany, and Spain, are involved.”
“Saab is already developing several sixth-generation technologies for the Gripen,” added Arne. “Although the Sukhoi Su-30SM is not Russia’s most advanced jet, they are reluctant to use so many of their superior Su-57S in combat, I believe. I feel Ukraine’s best approach is to press Sweden and Saab for more Gripen Es, even Fs.”
A close up view on Saab Gripen E “6002” of the Swedish Air Force. (Image credit: Saab)
All the Witches nodded as dessert brought more off-topic time. However, Adriana needed to address training priorities once coffee arrived… and before too much alcohol flowed
“As we attract ‘new’ Ukrainian pilots, we will need more jets and I feel, as many do, that Gripens are our future. If it wasn’t for the squadron’s personal contacts,” Adriana smiled at the Swedish and French contingent before continuing, “The Night Witches would be stuck flying just MiG-29s. Any chance of Saab reconsidering a plant in Ukraine again…or to avoid Russian attacks, in Poland?”
“That’s an aim your Swedish advocates keep pushing,” said Alfhild, and her compatriots nodded. “Poland might be an easier location to promote while Ukraine suffers almost nightly air raids. However, it would take time for any Gripens to be produced. Until then, obtaining more Cs intended for decommissioning would be the immediate solution… and persuading all the UAF top officers that one squadron is ready for alternatives to the F-16.”
“When our Mirages are authorised for combat from Ukraine, there is another option,” said Éliane. “They could do back-to-back missions with two pilots as quickly as the maintainers could turn them around.”
“The same could work with the Gripen Cs,” said Pernilla. “We should be able to train more pilots. We need to ensure the increased flight hours mean extra attention from the ground crews, so you always know you’re flying a reliable aircraft.”
“My students are taught to avoid cannibalising craft except when they’re wrecks,” added Anatol. “So, I’m glad some of our best graduates are serving with you, Night Witches.”
“All our maintainers here,” said Lyana, indicating those on the second table. “They’re already sharing their specific expertise on Mirages and Hornets, while learning about the Sukhoi. Then some of the Chayka Field maintenance team… including Anatol’s graduates – are sharing skills on Gripens with anyone needing to learn.”
“Useful strategy,” said Anatol. “As long as every mechanic focuses on their specialist area, and each craft is serviced by a complete chief-led team. Gripens, I know, only need one highly experienced technician and five conscripts per craft, although I presume a skilled team can achieve a faster turnaround.”
“That’s one of the Gripen’s selling points, along with its ability to operate from austere conditions”, said Alfhild. “But I can also see the F-16 has a numerical advantage with so many countries using it. Although Saab has ensured that Gripens can be modified according to a buyer’s requirements. Hence, countries as different as Thailand, South Africa, and Hungary have acquired them.”
“That must mean pilots are not having to learn Swedish to fly a Gripen,” said Adriana. “Like ours requiring a grasp of English… a task all of the Night Witches seem to have embraced.”
“No doubt inspired by our tri-lingual majors,” added Nadia. “Speaking two Ukrainian dialects, English, and Québécois. I guess many of us speak two or three.”
“If not, this University has a Foreign Language centre,” said Anatol. “They’ve helped me perfect my English.”
**
Monday, September 30th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
Dasha and Nadia knew Kalyna and Vasy Chayka had set up this interview with the Canadian podcast that supported Ukraine and the Night Witches.
‘Kearney Encounter with Clodagh and Darina’ had completed its trip to the front line, bringing aid to forces and groups struggling against the Russian invaders. Having witnessed the Sukhoi Su-30SM cross into Ukraine from Kursk, Clodagh & Darina Kearney were keen to talk to the two pilots.
However, this would be the ideal opportunity to create a deception around the Sukhoi Su-30SM.
The Kearneys had set up their podcast at the back of the briefing room, where they had hung their Ukrainian flag and the Air Force flag with the Night Witches Zharptytsia insignia in between them.
Clodagh and Darina welcomed the two pilots to the podcast and then introduced them to the live online audience.
“Our audience has been waiting for almost a week to learn about your escape from Russia, Nadia,” asked Clodagh. “We hear you were imprisoned in the notorious Malaya Loknya Women’s Prison from mid-August. Apologies if that brings back horrific memories. You don’t need to answer that.”
As Dasha squeezed her hand, Nadia answered.
“It was traumatic, but I need to let people know what the Russians will do to win.”
She related how she was betrayed and captured, how she was tortured but escaped. Then she continued with the infiltration of Khalino Air Base, aided by Dasha’s scheming.
“Under the cover of multiple drone attacks, we stole a Sukhoi Su-27 and escaped towards Ukraine, followed by Russian fighter jets, but as we passed Sudzha, Ukrainian defenders, learning our identity, shot the pursuers down. We then crossed the border safely.”
“Sorry to interrupt,” said Darina. “Our followers believe you were flying a Sukhoi Su-30SM, not a Su-27. Are we all mistaken?”
“Easily done,” replied Dasha. “Those two Sukhoi models are similar, since the Su-30SM was developed from the Su-27. When I worked at Khalino – undercover – many of the parts were the same for both models and interchangeable. In flight, the Sukhoi Su-27 looks like a Su-30SM, so much so that the UAF base where we landed was confused.”
“We wished we had stolen a Sukhoi Su-30SM fighter,” said Nadia. “Such a theft would have shaken Russian security and given us a fighter worth studying. However, there are more modern designs that NATO would like to analyse in depth.”
The sisters nodded and changed the topic.
“Some of the UAF squadrons are flying F-16s, but the Night Witches are training on other NATO jets. Does this mean we’ll see the squadron fighting in different NATO craft?” asked Clodagh. “If so, which ones?”
Dasha and Nadia outlined what they were authorised to say about the training and future aims of the squadron, both the jets and the helicopters. When the sisters seemed satisfied, they thanked them and ended the podcast.
“We know you were restricted in what you could say,” said Darina. “We’re grateful on behalf of our followers. However, we realise why you had to claim you hadn’t stolen a Sukhoi Su-30SM. It’s quite a prize, one that the Russians can’t admit was taken. We won’t let on either, as there have to be reasons. Trust us as staunch supporters of the Night Witches.”
This Episode of my ongoing fictional Ukrainian story ‘Freedom Flights’ is dedicated to Juanita’s and my friend and exceptional carer, Samantha Pieper, who died yesterday, aged only 25. One of the ongoing characters in the story, Sergeant Marusya Dudziarz, was inspired by her. A GoFundMe page has been started “to help cover the unexpected costs of her funeral and memorial services”.
Episode 36 of Freedom Flights concludes the medical issues arising from the Kursk escape to Ukraine. The Poland scenes in this episode will continue next time… in a few days.
I will continue trying to foreshadow future incidents without making my characters react as if they know what will happen in 2025.
Until a just and lasting peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom, with too many losing their lives. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons continue to reach the country, despite what some leaders threaten. Plus, that assistance must arrive on time to change their fortunes and prepare for the genuine peace that must come soon.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
On the main Command Centre screen, Kalyna and Vasy Chayka reviewed how the Night Witches had changed in over two years of war.
“Although we now have more helicopter flight crew here than fixed wing pilots,” said Vasy. “The new pilots at Dęblin should increase our effective contribution to Ukraine’s victory.”
“We haven’t suffered the same casualties as other units, although seven killed is still tragic,” added Kalyna, pointing to the new Roll of Honour on the wall.
She continued, “Mainly because we haven’t been used near the frontlines… except for the two Kursk missions. Fortunately, Nadia Lysenko was rescued from Russia, and just poor Polina Melynk was wounded on that mission.”
“How is Nadia?” asked Vasy.
“She needs time to recover, according to the doctor at Myrhorod. She’s due to see Doctor Sacha Proulx today, after seeing us shortly. Maybe she might tell us more.”
Kalyna glanced at the digital clock above the screen.
“I hope we have time to discuss more than whether there are any new recruits for the Tigress helicopter Brigade, Nadia leads. Her opinion on the situation in Dęblin could be useful before the UAF’s official report.”
“She has served with some of the French pilots,” added Vasy. “She and Aline persuaded their contacts to bring Mirage 2000-5Fs to assist Ukraine.”
There was a knock at the door, and Kapitan Nadia Lysenko entered with a short-haired female French lieutenant.
“May I present Lieutenant Cateline Ivanova, an experienced helicopter pilot who served in the French Army Light Aviation’s 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment with Capitaine Aline Bonheur.”
“You wish to volunteer to fly helicopters with us?” asked Vasy. “Why?”
“To fight for Ukraine’s freedom like my maternal great-grandfather,” replied Cateline. “I heard superb things about the Night Witches from Aline and hoped I would qualify.”
“So, you’ve flown an NH90 Caïman?” asked Kalyna. “Anything else?”
“In the academy, I was taught on smaller craft, but in combat, just Caïmans and Eurocopter Tigers. You have both, I hear.”
“I told her we had both,” said Nadia. “Although I also mentioned Alfa Tiger was short one pilot… two if Doctor Sacha grounds me.”
“Unlikely,” said Vasy. “Unless your wounds impair your ability to fly the Tiger. Are you concerned, Nadia?”
The Tigress leader hesitated, glancing from major to major, as if unsure what they expected.
“I was worried when I collapsed on the escape flight. Was it just a lack of sleep? I’m hoping Sacha can reassure me. But first we must discuss Dęblin.”
The cousins nodded, and Kalyna pointed at the list of new pilots on the screen.
“Are these all jet pilots? Or would any of them join your Brigade?”
Nadia studied the list and then looked at Cateline.
“We talked with some of them before we were flown here. Two Québécois pilots had the right experience. Did anyone else say anything about helicopters that seemed useful, Cateline?”
“I didn’t realise Kapitan Aleks Górski was your Tiger co-pilot,” said Cateline. “Apologies if this is sensitive. How did she end up co-piloting the NH90 Caïman with Aline?”
Nadia hesitated, so Kalyna answered.
“When Kapitan Lysenko went MIA in Kursk, her co-pilot, Aleks Górski, volunteered for the rescue mission. She’s stayed as part of the crew ever since.”
“However, if Nadia is deemed fit to fly Alfa Tiger again and Aleks wants to join her, that is fine by us,” said Vasy. “Aline will need a new co-pilot, and you, Cateline, are the perfect candidate.”
“If I’m not airworthy,” said Nadia with a forced grin. “Aleks can choose the best Québécois recruit as her co-pilot. As for the other recruits, they’re learning to fly Mirage 2000-5Fs while perfecting their skills in the CF-18A Hornets. There are also more than enough to ensure the squadron could have five active flights when our wounded pilots recover. That’s excluding the combat-ready French Mirage flight.”
“So, six flights come January,” said Kalyna. “By then, we should be allowed to use our best jets in combat… Gripens, Mirages, and Hornets, with our MiG-29s as valuable back-ups.”
*
Medical Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Once Doctor Sacha Proulx had studied the readouts from the monitors attached to Nadia, she continued asking questions.
“My initial physical examination suggested that some visible wounds were healing. But instruments detected internal damage responsible for your ongoing health issues. So, I must ask how long the Russians tortured you for?”
Nadia winced as the memories flooded back.
“When I was captured on August 12th, I was dragged to a farm building by soldiers… stripped naked and beaten “ She paused and closed her eyes, fighting off her fears. “They were about to rape me, but Dimitri, the officer who betrayed me, argued I was too valuable a prisoner.”
She stopped, and Sacha held onto her shaking body. Eventually, Nadia continued.
“I was taken, imprisoned, and tortured in Malaya Loknya Women’s Prison. Some Ukrainian women soldiers had been there for over a year, abused day after day. I was also beaten and abused, but luckily only for ten days, until August 23rd when our forces stormed the prison.”
“And our soldiers rescued you all?’ asked Sacha.
Nadia shook her head. “Not everyone. Some guards fled, dragging some of us away as hostages… but I escaped with a few others after three more days of Russian brutality. Most risked reaching Ukrainian lines… but I felt my Zoo colleagues would try to rescue me.”
“Learnt with French special forces, who never abandon a comrade. As I experienced in Côte d’Ivoire.” Sacha glanced at the monitors before continuing. “Now I understand my observations. You’ve had almost a month for the external signs, such as bruising, to disappear, although I detected a couple of deeper bruises, or hematomas, which have almost vanished. However, other internal injuries require observation and more time to heal.”
“Yet, I feel fit and ready to fly again… well, helicopters. Surely that’s acceptable?”
Sacha shook her head and rested a hand on Nadia’s, checking her pulse.
“Like my counterpart at Myrhorod, I recommend caution… after your blackout returning from Kursk, and your tremors recalling your harrowing experiences in prison. Have there been other traumatic episodes?”
Nadia closed her eyes and bit her lower lip. “I want to say no. Except I must admit nightmares and inability to sleep. Even abrupt noises make me anxious. Is it PTSD?”
“Not the worst case of PTSD I’ve seen. It may not be PTSD, but acute concussion if the guards beat you on the head repeatedly.”
Nadia nodded and asked, “If I were flying, fainting could be fatal for me and my co-pilot. Can concussion mask PTSD?”
“That’s a likely diagnosis as well. It would explain the mix of symptoms. I’d recommend not flying or, at the very least, letting someone else pilot. You must avoid combat. Finally, keep me informed, especially if you have more episodes.”
Sunday, September 29th – DęblinMilitary Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
The NH90 Caïman landed at Dęblin to collect the UAF officers desperate to return to Lviv after Saturday’s Russian attacks across Ukraine.
The most despicable incident was in Sumy, the third in six weeks involving medical facilities in the city. This time, Saint Panteleimon Clinical Hospital was struck twice within a 45-minute period. Most fatalities occurred from the second strike as rescuers attempted to evacuate 113 patients. With the death toll and injuries rising, medical units had been alerted countrywide.
However, the Night Witches’ medevacs had been dispatched to other attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine. Capitaine Aline Bonheur had returned to Chayka Field so Lieutenant Cateline Ivanova could replace Kapitan Aleks Górski as co-pilot, replicating their French deployment in Africa’s Sahel region. After responding to an incident in Kyiv, Aline flew the Caïman back to Dęblin.
While Lieutenant Cecilija Lusk supervised Sierra’s refuelling, Aline and Cateline went to find their passengers. As they walked towards the briefing room, they noticed Alfa Tiger and the PZL SW-4 Puszczyk.
“Has there been a change of plan?” asked Cateline. “Isn’t that Puszczyk used for passenger flights?”
“Usually, but perhaps someone needed to come here like the Majors and using their jets wasn’t fuel-efficient.”
Inside the mystery was partly solved when they noticed two code talkers, Aenoheso Little Hawk and Mahihkan Wolf Sister, with the two UAF officers whom the Caïman crew were collecting. However, Colonel Maksym Bondarenko looked up and came over.
“I’m glad you returned safely, but I must apologise. Major-General Natan Isaiev and I are going to Lviv in the Puszczyk. Sergeant Marusya Dudziarz kindly brought my code talker here with her Cree colleague. Marusya offered to fly Natan, Aenoheso and me to Ukraine… if you don’t mind.”
Aline noticed Group Captain Callum McNeilly smile and wink at her.
“We’d appreciate the rest after our trip to Kyiv and back. Many thanks, Colonel.” She noted Cateline nodding in agreement, so added, “This is Lieutenant Cateline Ivanova, our latest recruit, whom I served with in the French 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment.”
“Welcome to the 2022 Night Witches,” said Maksym. “And our thanks for fighting for Ukraine.”
“I’m proud to serve my maternal great-grandfather’s motherland,” Cateline replied, saluting before adding, “Slava Ukraini.”
Maksym returned the salute and replied, “Heroiam slava!”. Everyone repeated the cry.
Kapitan Nadia Lysenko joined them with Kapitan Aleks Górski.
“Although I miss Sierra,” said Aleks, “It’s great to be back in Alfa Tiger with Nadia.”
“Likewise, with a Caïman and Aline,” said Cateline. “What brings you here?”
Nadia smiled and replied, “We needed to discuss the training schedule, which is why Mahihkan came… then we can contact Kalyna and Vasy securely.”
“And when I’m back in Lviv,” said Maksym, “Aenoheso will allow me to talk securely. Colonel Alfhild Falkborg and colleagues will be arriving later, so they can inspect the Sukhoi Su-30SM and discuss our Gripen programme.”
He waved to the figures deep in conversation at the rear of the room.
Capitaine Dasha Isakova was telling Natan about how she had infiltrated Khalino Airbase.
“Zoo Sécurité, the Interpol-approved agency which sent me to find Nadia, created a new identity that convinced the Russian officers I approached that my credentials made me worth employing. Our sympathisers in Kursk also helped and ensured their drone attacks coincided with Kyiv’s.”
“Will you continue to fight with us?”
“Until a just peace is secured, hopefully longer. Ukraine feels like home. I discovered that when I met someone… some of your ground forces in Kursk”
Natan smiled. “I understand. We have to pray that we all see the peace.”
He checked his watch and the wall clock.
Then he joined Maksym, who said, “We need to sort out any remaining issues about the Sukhoi Su-30SM before we leave shortly.” They gestured to the two NATO officers who were now talking with Dasha. All three came over.
“I there anything urgent before we leave?” Natan asked the trio. “If not, it can wait until the main session.”
“Only the Polish Air Force technical team wants to inspect the Sukhoi Su-30SM at midday,” replied Colonel Jason Ayers. “Everything else can wait until later when the Swedes are here.”
Before the Lviv group could leave, Aline turned to Maksym.
“I must come out to the Puszczyk and thank Marusya for flying you all back. Then I’ll tell Cecilija we are staying longer than planned.”
By the time Natan, Maksym and Aenoheso had reached Lviv, Alfhild had arrived in two Gripen JAS 39F two-seaters with her trainer colleagues, Major Ottillia Elmersson and Kapten Pernilla Eklund, and a fourth officer, whom she introduced.
“Major Arne Östberg is one of our technical experts and a brilliant test pilot. He was my first choice for assessing the capabilities of the Sukhoi Su-30SM that Captains Dasha Isakova and Nadia Lysenko captured from the Russians.”
The lean, brown-haired man saluted the group gathered in the briefing room.
“I believe most of you have already inspected the Flanker, but has anyone flown her… except the pilots who brought the jet out of Russia. I’d like to test the jet in the air. I can then compare the handling to our NATO jets.”
“I was Dasha’s navigator on the final leg here,” said Jason Ayers. “She encouraged me to fly the Flanker once we crossed into Poland… and land her here. Such a responsive jet would be an interesting challenge for fighters like your Gripen E or F.”
“We have both here,” said Alfhild. “We can set something up using this base’s training area.” She paused as a group of seven pilots entered and saluted. When they were seated, she continued, “First, we need to discuss which Night Witches intend to make up the squadron’s Gripen flights.”
Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko stood and came to Alfhild, handing her a sheet of paper.
“That’s all the pilots whom the Majors intend to make up our five Gripen flights at Chayka Field eventually. However, they are aware we need six more recruits and ten more single-seat Gripens to reach the target. Until then, we have some options. Initially, one flight of MiG-29s.”
A second pilot joined Adriana.
“I’m Captain Lyana Rudenko, leading four other Québécois pilots currently perfecting our flying skills in CF-18A Hornets, but willing to learn other airframes such as Gripens, MiG-29s, or Mirage 2000-5Fs. We are adaptable.”
Two other pilots approached.
“I’m Commandant Raphaëlle Balode and this is Capitaine Éliane Nowicki. We are adding five single-seat Mirage 2000-5Fs and one two-seater Mirage 2000-B to the squadron’s itinerary, although not until Paris officially agrees that Ukraine can use them in combat. Until then, seven French pilots are available to fly anything else for Ukraine, or train others on Mirages.”
Alfhild thanked them all and then suggested secure links be opened to Chayka Field and Lviv before anything was decided. Then Kalyna and Vasy greeted everyone.
“We realise some of you still need to discuss things further,” said Kalyna. “Adriana Pavlenko knows our training priorities, as does Nadia Lysenko, so finalise an effective programme with them. However, we need to review our latest acquisition, avoiding sensitive details. For those, you can message us via Mahihkan.”
“Before I fly your addition to the inventory, please show me the package,” said Arne. “I need to make comparisons. We also need to plan my co-pilot and the DACT exercise.”
“One of the two-seaters would be the obvious match-up,” said Raphaëlle. “If I’m your co-pilot, I can be objective.”
“Unless you’re facing a Mirage,” said Callum. “Although if Éliane was disadvantaged with an unfamiliar navigator… it might work.”
Everyone laughed at the suggested and unexpected pairings.
“Was there any valuable feedback from other visitors?” asked Vasy, hinting at the Polish Air Force technical team. “If necessary, message us later.”
“They had invaluable suggestions on adaptations,” said Jason. “Some tally with mine and Callum’s. We’ll message you all after Arne has given his reaction later.”
“We will await that,” said Maksym. “Is there anything we can discuss openly now? When you are discussing training, Natan and I want to avoid creating language restrictions by having jets requiring anything other than Ukrainian or English. We’re also concerned that all planes have reasonable flight lives remaining.”
Nadia let Adriana reply.
“Those are priorities we plan to discuss with all our allies here. We suspect they share those concerns, as do their superiors.”
“On behalf of those allies, I know all our supplied jets are NATO compatible,” said Raphaëlle. “However, we will ensure those requirements are met. As for other issues, nobody is indicating a need to say anything else. I propose we adjourn outside?”
MPA 2,597 Words
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
Sketches, Lingerie And Paris Memories: A Ukrainian Sniper On How She Survived Russian Captivity-Jan 18th 2024:
It’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post, and an opportunity to write about something opportune.
On Sunday evening, I finally submitted my police procedural, Fevered Fuse, to London-based publisher Joffe Books. After researching the best independent publishers for crime fiction, Joffe Books was my first choice. I should hear back from them within three months. While waiting for the publisher to answer, I’ll rewrite ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in my Snowdon Shadows Mysteries, and write more episodes of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights.
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
**
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!
May 7 question – Some common fears writers share are rejection, failure, success, and lack of talent or ability. What are your greatest fears as a writer? How do you manage them?
Since my late teens, submitting a manuscript has triggered my fear of rejection. I can’t remember the exact short story, but I wrote many fantasy stories in my teens. However, I do remember my first rejection was for one I submitted to a fantasy magazine whose name I have conveniently forgotten. All I know is that I was discouraged from submitting any fiction for decades. But I couldn’t stop writing and even edited a magazine called Mind Sphere for a bilingual SF & fantasy society I helped create in Montreal, Canada.
My first paid editing job for The Field magazine led to my first published fiction articles, and eventually, my factual writing was published hundreds of times over the next thirty-five years. But my fear of rejection for fiction writing hovered in the background.
When I finally finished a novel I believed in – not my first or even third attempt – I submitted it, despite fearing another rejection… and encouraged by my wife, Juanita. However, Spectacle Publishing accepted Spiral Of Hooves and my debut novel was published in 2013. Except another fear emerged: the fear of failure.
Cover design by Jonathan Temples. Cover photo by Nick Perry.
Although Spiral Of Hooves sold a few copies and had predominantly excellent reviews, I believed I had failed. I’d written a sequel but shelved it and worked on other stories, unwilling to resign myself to accepting I lacked talent.
Or was that my problem?
I submitted some shorts, willing at last to accept a few rejections. IWSG threw me a lifeline, and in 2019, my WWII historical fantasy short story Feathered Fire was accepted for the 2020 IWSG Anthology Voyagers: The Third Ghost. The encouragement from the published short and fellow authors has helped me have faith in my writing. It’s also led to my ongoing Ukraine episodic story, Freedom Flights.
On one level, I manage my fears through my writing, although if I look at the growing pile of unpublished shorts and novels, I still question my talent.
Submitting Fevered Fuse feels like a test. Am I prepared for rejection? Or does another publishing opportunity bring the risk of not promoting the book enough? How do I promote a book when I’m housebound? I must do more than print a few T-shirts like the Spiral Of Hooves one I’m wearing today.
Perhaps I only need to be online in the present digital age… not housebound but cloud-borne.
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!
Writing Wings 