Episode 42 of Freedom Flights is set in February 2025 and will be released in two parts, making it easier to absorb. Can you guess what world-stunning event occurs in Part 2? As always, some events foreshadowed in this episode will take a few months to play out.
I will continue trying to foreshadow future incidents without making my characters react as if they know what will happen later in 2025… although they might fear what could happen. Also, I want each episode to tackle just crucial incidents in a specific month, so I hope to reach the present quickly. I don’t want to be stuck writing about earlier months when the last shot is fired.
Therefore, until a just and lasting peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, thus addressing the essential rebuilding. I must finish writing the pre-2022 growth of the Chayka Family and their aviation business based in Canada, Chayka Air, but that will be posted elsewhere.
We must never forget the brave people fighting for freedom, with too many losing their lives. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons continue to reach Ukraine, despite how some leaders vacillate. 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 42. No Cards Game
2025
Friday, February 7th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
Commandant Raphaëlle Balode allowed Sergeant Adélie Levchenko to land the two-seater Mirage 2000B trainer at Dęblin. Behind them, Capitaine Éliane Nowicki led the flight of five Mirage 2000-5Fs onto the Polish Air Force University runway, and all six craft taxied to where their maintainers could take responsibility for their charges.
“Anything to report?” asked Adjudant Léana Melnik. Her combined French and Canadian team were ready to inspect and, where necessary, repair the Mirages.
Raphaëlle gave the other pilots time to respond. None did.
“Another routine flight, Léana. You gals are keeping these precious birds in top form. As of yesterday, we officially became an active part of the UAF. These jets will be flown to Ukraine once we get our orders. Léana, can your team please inspect, arm, and fully refuel the five 2000-5Fs?”
The first clear photo of a Ukrainian Mirage 2000-5F. (Image credit: Ukrainian Air Force)
As the maintainers began their inspection, the pilots went up to their control room, where the other French and Canadian pilots were waiting.
After greeting them, Raphaëlle checked the time and then called Chayka Field. Kalyna answered.
“Perfect timing, Raphaëlle. After President Zelensky welcomed the Ukrainian-piloted Mirages from France yesterday, you asked Vasy and me to remind Colonel Bondarenko about your Mirage flight in Poland. As expected, Maksym hadn’t forgotten. His UAF superiors have granted permission for your three best pilots to fly into Ukraine today. You also need to send a maintainer team to support them. However, the destination will be transmitted via talker after our conversation.”
Raphaëlle nodded to the Dęblin code talker, Tayanita Brave Beaver, before responding.
“I’ll supply the three names and call signs using the same method.” When Captain Lyana Rudenko gestured, Raphaëlle continued. “Are the Hornets required, or do we continue the training programmes?”
“As yet, the UAF is being advised by our NATO allies to only use two NATO 4th generation fighters, which rules out our Hornets, except for any exercise outside Ukrainian airspace.”
“However, our Gripen C is a 4th-generation fighter,” said Vasy. “Except unofficially, the UAF realises that a single squadron, ourselves, has a flight and is training on the E & F variants in Poland. Officially, the ongoing plan to transfer Swedish Gripen C/D jets is still on the table. Let’s hope a keen jet-spotter doesn’t expose our subterfuge.”
“If they do, we can claim we are saving money,” said Lyana. “The UAF knows the Mirage 2000-5F is cheaper to operate than the F-16, but we’ve proved the Gripen is easily the most cost-efficient 4th generation fighter.”
*
Half an hour later, Chayka Field’s code talker, Nauja Tall Gull, sent the encrypted instructions to her colleague, Tayanita Brave Beaver, who deciphered the message for Raphaëlle to read aloud.
“Night Witch Mirage flight to proceed to Kalyniv Airfield. Then await further orders.” Raphaëlle destroyed the message, then continued. “We need to discuss which of you will fly this first mission. I know we all want to fight for real.”
“Haven’t your original flight the most experience?” asked Lyana. “Although two of us Canadians, Tatiana and I, had flight time at Chayka.”
Raphaëlle checked her training notes on the computer.
“We have all notched up excellent flight times and done Dissimilar Air Combat Training. But almost nobody has real combat experience. However, in April 2018, Éliane Nowicki was one of four Cigognes selected for the attacks against illegal chemical weapon sites during the Syrian Civil War. The Mirage 2000-5Fs were supporting five SCALP missile-armed Rafale-Bs.”
“I was the most junior pilot in the flight,” said Éliane. “Not sure that makes me combat-hardened.”
“However,” said Raphaëlle. “Our trio will be Capitaine Éliane Nowicki, call sign Soleil, Capitaine Marielle Simonova, call sign Amant, and Captain Lyana Rudenko, call sign Red Cardinal.”
**
Thursday, February 13th – Recreation Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Kalyna and her cousin Vasy sat in a group of Night Witches personnel watching a disturbing news report.
“What more can this US administration do to disrupt the world?” said Vasy. “They’ve turned so much upside down in just a few weeks.”
“I’m worried now about the peace deal,” said Kalyna. “Does Trump expect dictating terms to work? This weekend’s Munich Security Conference could go either way.”
The group went silent for a moment, failing to ignore the images on the television.
“Judging by last week’s sudden dismantling of USAid,” said Adriana Pavlenko. “More unexpected announcements by his team are likely. As that TV report shows,177 recipient countries are already struggling without USAid.”
“If the Trump team can be that callous,” added Tamila Medved. “What hope have we of a just peace for Ukraine. My father, Illya, fears our people and land in the east will be sacrificed to make Putin stop.”
“Only for him to invade again in a few years,” said Vasy. “Even before Trump’s inauguration, US military aid was being held up by the Republican-controlled Congress. Uncertainty about supplies of ammunition, spare parts, and armoured vehicles is critical, especially at the front.”
Everyone nodded in agreement, and Tamila concluded, “The doubt over our continued fight is worse with Trump’s return to power. His regime can halt shipments anytime, even those initiated by Biden’s administration. When Trump froze foreign aid, that included Ukraine.”
Doctor Sacha Proulx and Chief Paramedic Osinniy joined them from another table.
“Seems you were also shocked by that USAid report,” said Sacha. “We’ve been assessing what it means for Ukraine, already struggling with vital shortages of critical supplies.”
“At the front, they’re just holding on. There’s no other choice,” Osinniy said, shaking her head. “When I was a medic there, armoured cars were a lifeline. Not just for getting troops and equipment to their positions, but also for getting the injured out. Otherwise, without the means to rescue them, the wounded die alone beyond our lines.”
**
Sunday, February 16th – Kalyniv Airfield near the Polish border
Éliane Nowicki was talking with her colleagues, Marielle Simonova, and Lyana Rudenko in French after their night sortie over Lviv and Zakarpattia Oblasts, patrolling the border with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary.
“They’re moving us to another airfield tonight,” said Éliane. “Our three maintainers told me when we landed. After preparing our Mirages, they’re going ahead of us in the Puszczyk.”
“When will we know our destination?” asked Lyana. “I know we can’t land at Chayka Field yet. We don’t want a repeat of last year’s incident with a Sukhoi Su-24.”
“That must be the reason we’re hopping around bases,” said Marielle, shaking her auburn hair loose. “And UAF policy of evading the Russian attacks.”
“Where do you feel safest?” asked a male pilot, slicking back his black hair. “Kalyniv is my squadron’s base. I’m guessing you beauties are Night Witches from Chayka Field. Haven’t seen you around… and you’re not speaking our language.”
Éliane laughed.
“Witches, yes. Chayka Field, not yet… until our runway is extended.”
“Same reason we can’t land our F-16s there,” said another pilot, dragging up another chair. “Our last visit was… memorable.”
Lyana chuckled.
“You were the two Sukhoi Su-24 pilots who blocked our runway.”
“Kapitan Andriy Oliynyk,” said the first pilot.” My friend is Lieutenant Fedir Kravets. You lovely trio must be Mirage 2000-5F trainers from France. Except, weren’t you training Ukrainian pilots in your country?”
“We were training Ukrainian Canadians in Poland,” said Éliane. “We also volunteered as Night Witches, but we’re not the official flight… so, you never met us.”
Then the women introduced themselves.
“Do you have call signs in case we encounter you in the air attacking orcs?” asked Andriy.
“Soleil, Cardinal Rouge and Amante,” said Marielle, winking. “You’ll have to guess which is which Witch when we use them.”
Andriy chortled.
“Easy. You’re Cardinal Rouge,” he said, pointing at Marielle. “I know what rouge means. One of the few French words I know. I guess Soleil might be Éliane, and Lyana is Amante.”
As he concluded, the Base Commander appeared and handed Éliane a message, which she glanced at.
“Our flight’s next haven.”
“Why the secrecy?” asked Fedir. “Or can you tell us?”
The three Witches all shook their hands.
“Like you, we’re all under orders,” said Lyana. “We all have to keep the Russians guessing. For now, they know from the media that there are two, maybe three Mirage 2000-5F in Ukraine. But no one is sure where those ones are. We don’t. Our presence confuses things. We never know where we might be deployed next.
“And there are more crucial events happening,” added Marielle. “Like what JD Vance stirred up at the Munich Security Conference. Has he shaken up the transatlantic partnership?”
Everyone nodded.
“You’re not just an ace pilot,” said Andriy. “You’re politically astute. You saw through his attack on Europeans. His version of democracy means pandering to the far-right and Putin, not genuinely helping us. Meanwhile, you’re fighting alongside us.” He glanced at her colleagues and added, “All three of you are with us.”
“Our President, Zelenskyy, was correct in saying the time had come for a European army,” added Fedir. “As we’re doing, Europe must join together.”
“Canada as well,” said Lyana. “We’re with you… and Europe. Like the modern Night Witches. Forget us being the 51st state… Trump’s lackey.”
“Don’t forget Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, also added ‘Europeans can’t make an assumption that America’s presence will last forever’, pointedly,” said Éliane. “Yet, our countries are expected to buy US weapons, gas, and goods. Or they can be like France and other nations developing our home-grown defence industry.”
They all paused for thought until Marielle concluded, “We need to see this move by the Trump regime as a challenge to our sense of freedom. I may be taking a political stance when, as a servicewoman I should remain neutral, but I agree with those who say we should speak out more forcefully about building inclusive societies and against the hate-mongers.”
Andriy stared at her and smiled.
“As I said, you have a perceptive mind. And I believe establishing a European security regime crafted and owned by us Europeans would be less vulnerable to the whims and tides of US policy and beneficial.”
“Before you two resolve every political crisis, some of us need rest”, said Éliane, and she winked, adding, “That includes you, Captain Simonova.”
This is Part 3, the last part of Episode 23 of Freedom Flights, collectively called Witches Troupe.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page on the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 23 – Witches Troupe
2024
Part 3
Friday, June 7th – Zvenigora B&B, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
The sound of jet engines and rotary blades drilled into Geralt’s head, forcing him awake. He reached a hand across the double bed, but there was nobody in the woman—shaped depression beside him.
Had it been Chae-Yeong or Ji-Yeon beside him all night or a dream?
Chae-Yeong had a dawn exercise and he had heard helicopters taking off. One might have been her KAI LAH. She knew he needed to sleep… and move on.
But he kept smelling jasmine, her favourite scent. Where from in this rented room?
Coincidence if Chae-Yeong used the same scent. Or stress-induced imagination.
He forced his mind to relive the Challenge evening, remembering the struggle as lay on the grass beside Chae-Yeong. Above them, the pin-pricked sky, trying to escape from the past. Earlier, he had abandoned the Darts Trophy with a teammate, exchanging it for two glasses of vodka with Chae-Yeong. She knew he was struggling to bury the past.
He had murmured as he held her in a gentle embrace.
” ‘O Captain! My Captain! our fearful trip is done…”
She replied with the next line. “The ship has weather’d every rack, the prize we sought is won;”
And as so often, they exchanged lines of Walt Whitman’s famous poem, until he said, “But O heart! heart! heart!”
Then the flood of memories forced his head down into his hands. He could only sob, “O the bleeding drops of red.”
Chae-Yeong tried every other line, yet all he could force out was Ji-Yeon’s name. If only he had fallen asleep.
Would that have been giving into his PTSD?
Instead, she had talked about Ji-Yeon and what she wanted. Then, she quoted from the last verse of the poem,
“…The ship is anchor’d safe and sound, its voyage closed and done;
From fearful trip, the victor ship, comes in with object won;
Exult, O shores, and ring, O bells!”
Reminding him that they had won, breaking the smugglers’ attempt to divert critical arms. Now was the time to move forward.
“You returned her body to her family,” she had said and he’d agree. “So, they’ve been able to bury her and find peace. You promised her that you’d protect me, which you fulfil every day… not just me, but protection for us all.”
She was right and she called it his Post Trauma Growth. They had walked back to the Zvenigora where their bodies were truly united without guilt.
Now Chae-Yeong was doing her part for Ukraine and peace. It was his chance to commit everything to the same cause.
Friday, June 7th – Airfield Krupa, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
The early morning sun’s rays were banishing the mist from the overgrown taxiways surrounding Krupa’s derelict buildings.
Nadia and Aleks had detected no signs of life at the airfield, even though four small aircraft were parked outside a closed hangar. They were anxious to land and park their Tiger somewhere secure and hidden from unwelcome attention.
“The smaller control tower is nearer those planes and less derelict,” said Nadia. “We can land on the nearby taxiway, and search for whoever was meant to do the restoration work for ACW.”
“Maksym said they should expect regular visits to check on progress.” Aleks didn’t sound reassured.
They landed in the shadow of the control buildings and secured the Tiger with its enhanced armaments switched to protect. They equipped themselves with the FAMAS bullpup assault rifles stored on their French craft for its crew.
Entering the ground floor through heavy brass doors, they noticed superficial work had been done, just enough to make some rooms useable.
Aleks gestured at the poorly disguised CCTV cameras and the cables leading upwards.
She whispered, “I can interfere with those from the Tiger. Wait out of sight.”
When she returned, they quietly followed the cables expecting to be surprised by whoever’s domain they had trespassed onto. They had readied their bullpups, although any security could be friendly.
On the top floor, they heard voices from inside the control room. The voices seemed to be ordering the four small aircraft outside, telling them to deliver packages to other airfields. No mention was made of any attempt to upgrade the airfield, but there had to be a contact.
Nadia knocked once on the door and called out, “I’m Kapitan Nadia Lysenko from the Ukraine Air Force looking for the upgrade crews. Can you help?”
There was muffled whispering inside, and then the door was opened and Nadia was shown in. A flight controller sat facing towards the tarmac where the cargo planes were waiting. “Lay your gun on the desk and turn round. We just need to be sure who you really are.”
When she was allowed to turn around, she calmly said, “Two men brandishing semi-automatic rifles seem distrustful. Can’t we talk this through?”
“Especially when I’m aiming at your controller,” said Aleks. “So, let’s talk, please?”
A large, heavy-set man stepped into the doorway, lowering his gun as he said, “Wise idea… talking. I’m leaving you here with this armed guard while I check your identities outside.” His manner indicated he held some authority… at least within this clique. “Please let our deliveries leave safely.”
From the control tower, they could see how extensive the airfield was. But also how derelict it remained. There were signs that someone had extended the runway for a short distance, perhaps just enough to land MiG-29s. But they were unsure whether it was safe to call in Gold Flight until they knew who the present occupiers were.
The man returned but not on his own. He had brought two other men who immediately accused the Tiger crew of trespassing on private property
“I think you’ll find you’re the ones trespassing,” said Nadia. “This base has been acquired by the Armed Forces of Ukraine outright and we have every right to be here. You may be entitled to continue trading from this small area… if your business is legal.”
“Unfortunately, you cannot leave, so unless your enforcers are coming, you depend on our good nature. Take them back to their disabled grave… which we could get a substantial price for.”
True to their claim, the Tiger had been grounded with its rear rotors damaged. Some of the exterior armaments had also been disabled. However, communications remained intact, so they could request help.
“Whom should we contact first? Kalyniv or Dęblin?” asked Aleks when they were alone.
“We must contact Gold Flight first and see if they can land here. They could also send a message to Dęblin. We can also attempt to find out if anyone has attempted to restore any of the buildings or just the runway.”
Aleks contacted Gold Flight who said they would scramble immediately. This was the last day of their three-week tour, so they would continue onto Dęblin after coming to Krupa.
In less than half an hour, Gold Flight arrived at the air base and flew low over the runway checking its distance and for obstructions.
“This is Kapitan Anzhela Havrylyuk of the 2022 Night Witches Squadron. We believe you are holding one of our helicopters hostage please explain why.”
Nadia and Aleks had managed to hack into the control tower so overheard the reply.
“Apologies for the oversight we were unclear as to their intentions. What are yours over?”
“We will land our full flight and expect you to escort us to our officers.”
When Anzhela met Nadia, they embraced inside the Tiger.
“Can we trust these people, or are they dangerous?”
“I suspect they are illegally transporting goods from this airfield. Maybe not arms smugglers but potentially dangerous. We can try and fix the Tiger, but it will take most of the day as we’re not primarily mechanics. Continue to Dęblin and we’ll follow as soon as we can.”
“We can also send for helicopter support, although the Puszczyk will be doing the Kalyniv run.”
“There are two ideal choices,” said Aleks. “Either the Griffon with its two pilots and one flight engineer crew and space for 8-10 ground personnel. Or the Black Hawk with two pilots and two crew chiefs, plus space for eleven passengers.”
“It will also depend on who’s free… on movie night,” added Nadia. “Ideally two mechanics or flight engineers, and then whatever security personnel Geralt can spare. I want to check out whatever these supposed entrepreneurs have stashed away. It might be of concern to GROM’s Ukrainian colleagues. While you fly to Dęblin, we’ll contact the Brigade to discuss maintenance and then discuss ongoing security with Geralt.”
Nadia and Aleks settled in for a long day and probably night secure in their armoured Tiger…if their mysterious obstructors hadn’t disabled anything crucial to their survival. Yet, all the basics like food, water, heating and light were untouched…. Unlike the situation for so many others in this war.
“We must contact our colleagues at Dęblin. Gold Flight only know part of what happened. Also, the Brigade must send the right aid as everything feels precarious.”
“Which is why you are right involving Geralt’s group, whatever they get named,” added Aleks.
**
Friday, June 7th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
By the time Gold Flight landed safely at Dęblin, plans were already underway not just for the repair of Alfa Tiger but for the first stage of the squadron’s occupation of Krupa.
“We were wrong sending such a small presence,” said Kalyna. “A serious oversight…in retrospect.”
“What did ACW report on the state of the base,” asked Anzhela Havrylyuk of Gold Flight. “The runway had been extended and cleared when we got there… and not for the four small cargo planes using it.”
Kalyna checked their last report from ACW.
“Other than what you noted, I fear not much. Maksym said the contractors should expect regular visits to check on progress. Seems our inspection has yielded minimal progress.”
She glanced around the group in the Witches’ office and nodded for Vasy to continue.
“As Nadia and Aleks contacted four fellow officers to resolve their situation, I felt it best we all met to ensure that we helped as efficiently as possible… and speedily as there are dubious parties involved. However, first, I will dispense with titles… apologies.”
She paused and then continued, “How can the damage to Alfa Tiger be fixed, Janina Patriksson and how many of your colleagues will be needed?”
“From what they reported, they need some tail rotor components and other parts requiring three maintenance crew.”
“Xenia Ahlberg, your Griffon has one flight engineer and space for 8-10 personnel or cargo. Your Black Hawk, Henrika Visser has two crew chiefs and space for 11 personnel or cargo. Discuss with Janina how much space you would have left after ensuring you had the right maintenance crew and the requested components. This is crucial as there’s also a security issue.”
Vasy nodded at her cousin then joined the two helicopter pilots and the Chief Mechanic,
Kalyna then turned to Geralt Sówka and the two female officers in dark space cadet blue uniforms with owl insignias.
“Geralt, you were told about the strange situation that Nadia and Aleks reported from Krupa. They feel whatever these possible intruders might be doing, could concern your Ukrainian colleagues. Also, please introduce your fellow officers.”
“These are the First Lieutenants of our new security squad, Andżelika Sówka and Estera Sówka, my nieces and former GROM trainees. I chose the Owl insignia for its powerful symbolism… and ‘sowa’ means owl in Polish.”
“A wise choice as the owl is a night hunter… like the Night Witches. So, to the security issue.”
Geralt projected a map of the derelict buildings at Krupa Airbase from his tablet to the office’s wall screen.
“The rotor blade symbol indicates where Nadia reports Alfa Tiger landed tight beside the smallest control tower. Her report indicated that this building is partially restored, unlike what she and Aleks could see of the others,”
He switched from the map to a series of photos taken from the ground.
“When I talked with my colleagues at SSO, Ukraine Special Operations Forces, they were concerned about who was operating out of Krupa, as there are enough derelict buildings – as these photos show – to mask numerous illicit and dangerous activities. However, the war has placed endless demands on SSO resources, so they want us to investigate the airbase.”
“Have we the personnel yet?” asked Kalyna. “How many proficient recruits do you have?”
He turned to his nieces and one replied.
“Estera and I persuaded ten trained colleagues to assist us with the formation of an active security squad, which is provisionally called the Night Owls—”
“As Sowka Squad felt too nepotistic,” added Geralt. “Even though Andżelika and Estera will lead the unit.”
He changed the photos to floor plans of all the buildings, showing an extensive network of spaces below ground.
“SSO provided us with these airport layout plans when it was active a few years ago. If the intruders are using even a fraction of this area and feel entitled to stay, we have a security problem.”
“Except ACW assured us that the base was vacant,” said Kalyna. “Except for a small cargo business restricted to the area of the small control tower. We need to ensure that they remain in that area or leave.”
“Night Owls, how quickly and easily can you help us secure the main base,” asked Vasy. “And what transport do you need?”
Geralt swiftly consulted with his lieutenants and then let Andżelika reply.
“We would aim to get all of us in ASAP, but logistically we sense that is important to rescue Alfa Tiger first using the most efficient craft. Which you decided was?”
“Given the size of the components,” said Janina. “My team decided on the Black Hawk, as the two crew chiefs though gunners are also mechanics. However, I would send at least one other engineer to assist—”
“Leaving space for ten security personnel,” said the pilot, Henrika Visser. “We will be ready to leave in two hours, as soon as you have overseen the loading of the tail rotor components and other parts, Chief Patriksson.”
“Majors, permission to take eight Night Owls under my command, please,” asked Estera.
“Granted,” replied Kalyna and Vasy, who then asked, “Andżelika, that leaves you two Owls. What’s your strategy?”
Without glancing at Geralt, she replied, “After I leave here with Estera, we will divide the squad so she can establish a safe working perimeter around the two helicopters and recce a safe area to move to for permanence. However, my two Night Owls and I will work for as long as it takes finding other recruits among Dęblin students, Ukrainian refugees, or anyone on this base who believes Krupa can offer us a secure new home.”
“Over what period as I urged earlier?” asked Vasy.
“Given the way your crews have responded to events so far, we’d say Krupa could be secured within the next month… at least the key area around the main terminal. For instance, below the ground floor of the main concourse, I’ve identified on the floor plans a central space that could become another Zvenigora ‘cinema’ restaurant taking advantage of the network growing underground. A hub worth building and defending.”
There was generous applause for the vision.
Xenia Ahlberg, Pilot of Griffon asked, “I presume you want to use our craft to join the other two at Krupa tomorrow? We have room for eight of you, leaving say at 0600 tomorrow. Let’s discuss this idea at movie night this evening.
As the different groups dispersed outside, Geralt found himself alone with the Chayka cousins.
“Have we just witnessed the start of the move from Dęblin to Krupa?” he asked.
“Just the beginning of the move,” said Kalyna. “The arrival of French Mirages to Ukraine by the end of the year may be the end of an era.”
“Although the two Saab 340 AEWCS Sky and Sea Surveillance Planes when they arrived in Poland today for Ukraine,” said Vasy. “That might be today’s real game-changer, not anything we did.”
**
Wounded soldier at Kyiv memorial site: A young soldier sits in a wheelchair at a memorial site in Kyiv, Ukraine, on May 31, 2024. Most Ukrainians wish to continue the war, despite massive losses over more than two years of fighting. KOSTIANTYN LIBEROV/LIBKOS/GETTY IMAGES
Saturday, June 8th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
“Although we’re missing the seventeen sisters at Krupa,” said Mariyka. “There’s always the same number missing out at Kalkniv, and they usually catch up on the movie showings.”
“You’re suggesting a third showing at Krupa,” said Sergei. “At least the locals and the students are dependable regulars here… and they’re supporting us again tonight.”
Bookings were steady, although Mariyka worried how her aunt’s business might decline when most of them moved to Krupa. Yet it had survived before the Night Witches had come to Dęblin.
What about her and her Flight Engineers leaving… with or without Sergei? Was she about to rip her family apart?
Her concerns were interrupted by Geralt arriving with his new partner Chae-Yeong, plus three confident women in midnight blue uniforms each with an owl patch. He said they were expecting five more, so they needed a table for ten, somewhere discreet.
More of his usual covert business? But she knew not to pry when he was tasked with the squadron’s security.
Instead, she found herself supporting her aunt in defending ‘all these useless Ukrainian refugees’.
“The sooner we stop aiding them,” said an angry customer, ”the sooner we can make peace with the Russians as Mr Putin says he wants. All Ukraine must do is accept that Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson are part of Russia as they always were. We don’t need Ukraine in NATO risking our lives.”
It was tempting to ignore the man but soon someone would oppose his opinion, provoking a fight.
“This restaurant is not the place for political debate, sir.”
The man stood up and shouted.
“This fascist bitch wants me to shut up. Should I? You all know how we end this American-sanctioned war. Throw the Ukrainian Nazis out.”
Two firm hands grasped his arms.
“Are you going to let these customers enjoy their meals and the movie in peace?” asked two Night Owls in Polish. “Shout your political propaganda outside, please.
The man broke free and staggered to the door, muttering, “Damn blackshirt thugs already here. The film’s crap like the food.”
He tripped over the doorstep, landing flat on his face.
A round of applause carried the Owls back to their table.
Owl of Athena: Original art – Luke Hillestad
“Let’s hope Zelensky’s forthcoming peace conference in Switzerland attracts better supporters,” said Andżelika. “In two weeks we’ll know.”
She turned as five younger women came into the restaurant and seeing her hurried over.
“Hope we didn’t miss anything,” said one with a lilting accent.
“Just a touch of theatre.”
The lights dimmed and Mariyka introduced the evening’s entertainment.
“Tonight, we have our first-ever double bill. Our feature is Ocean’s 8, a 2018 American heist comedy film directed by Gary Ross and written by Ross and Olivia Milch. The film is a spin-off from Steven Soderbergh’s Ocean’s series and the fourth instalment. The film features an ensemble cast including Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, Rihanna, and Helena Bonham Carter. The film follows a group of women led by Debbie Ocean, the sister of Danny Ocean, who plan a sophisticated heist at the annual Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
I’ll introduce our second film, a 2024 documentary after you’ve enjoyed Ocean’s 8.”
*
As the movie ended, the lights came on so Mariyka could introduce the documentary.
“We chose this 2024 documentary Blue Angels, as some of you are fighter jet pilots, like me. Some of you may even have flown in similar planes as those featured, although never in such formations. The Blue Angels follows the veterans and newest class of Navy and Marine Corps flight squadron as they go through intense training and into a season of heart-stopping aerial artistry. Be as amazed as I am whenever I see the Blue Angels fly with such precision.”
*
As the double bill ended and customers ordered fresh drinks at the bar, Sabina turned to her sister Mariyka, saying, “Pity so many missed tonight’s showing, especially the inspiring documentary. What’s going to happen when most of them are based at Krupa? Will we have enough clients here?”
“Aunt Agnieszka thinks so with the University staff and students supporting her… as before. We must have faith in her, especially as she’s planning for a cellar club in Lutsk, which would show films like here.”
“Does her club have to be in Lutsk?” asked Geralt as he paid the tab for his table. “My nieces noted something on Krupa’s ground plans. Join us when you’ve cleared up.”
Sometime later, Andżelika and her initial two Night Owls were finalizing the recruitment of the new five.
“Now we’re the perfect eight… almost like in ‘Ocean’s 8’… except this isn’t a heist, and we can’t afford any mistakes”
Agnieszka and her family joined them, wondering where this might lead as they pulled up more chairs.
Andżelika laid out the ground plan of Krupa’s main concourse.
“With a bit of imagination, this area here could be another Zvenigora ‘cinema’ restaurant, safely located underground within a network of spaces controlled by the 2022 Night Witches Squadron. We may know more about the location when we investigate in the next few days. It would be great too if there were communal spaces to meet family needs. It’s time our children could study safely too.”
“Have you room for a couple more,” asked Mariyka. “I’d like to see what’s there.”
“Ask Xenia Ahlberg, who’s joining us now.”
The Griffon pilot came over with Acacia Berntsen, her co-pilot, and Iryna Forsberg, their flight engineer.
“If these are all passengers, I’m afraid we can only take eight. Sorry. Maybe there’s another option, or some will have to come to Krupa when it’s secured in a few weeks.”
A minor change in format for this episode of Freedom Flights. I will continue with the multi-part episodes, but not always introduce each part. However, expect me to include the monthly movie night… even if I don’t make the theme obvious.
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 reach the frontlines in time to change their fortunes.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page on the left-hand sidebar.
Saturday, June 1st – DęblinMilitary Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
The Chayka cousins had worried about who to invite to this meeting. However, it would be easy to add someone if necessary.
“First, the news we needed weeks ago as the Russians bombarded Kharkiv, finally our allies say we can use the weapons they supplied, to fight back and hit the Russians cowering over the border. Somewhat late as usual,” said Kalyna. “However, our graduate recruits have been integrating well into the Witches routine for two weeks. Meanwhile, we’ve been adapting to having extra crew and new equipment. It’s time to assess how ready we are to take on the implied new duties for Air Command West. I suspect that means our helicopter brigade, so over to you Nadia.”
This time Nadia had prepared some charts she could project on the wall from her laptop.
“With the help of Aleks,” she nodded towards her usual co-pilot.” Plus, with the assistance of Brajan Rudawski and Igor Dubicki, outside their University commitments, we have been able to assess the relative aptitudes of our ten recruits using the craft we have, the University’s simulator, and a stiff questionnaire. This is the current crew list with an initial assessment of roles and responsibilities. Some are best as pilots, others as co-pilots.”
Vasy flicked through the notes she had compiled beforehand.
“Doesn’t this depend on what helicopters we can rely on receiving?”
Nadia projected another chart.
“This lists the craft that have arrived or ones which seem likely. At present, we have two Eurocopter Tiger HAPs –one provided by Airbus and another from my old regiment. Our favourite Latino journalist… sigh please… has secured a third Tiger, although he failed in his bid to persuade Conchita a supposed ace pilot to join us.”
“Was he serious?” asked Mariyka, “his reputation proceeds him.”
“Aaron says he has photos.” Nadia shrugged, then continued, “Let’s move on to Chayka Air. Kalyna, you have news.”
She scrolled through computer files, and then said, “I can vouch for this as my daughter, Aliona, the CEO of Chayka Air emailed that with the aid of the Royal Canadian Air Force, we will receive one Bell CH-146 Griffon. That’s a multi-role utility helicopter with a crew of three, that carries eight to ten troops or six stretchers. Aliona said it might be flown over in one of our C-130 Hercules. She also hinted at more Canadian recruits… and possibly another helicopter.”
“So, even if the South Korean KAI LAH arranged by Ji-Yeon arrives, although from GROM, so indirectly,” replied Nadia. “I must depend on obtaining another Tiger from the Australian Army… or other craft.”
Aleks laughed.
“Calling us the Tiger Brigade might prove correct… or should we be Tigress Streak. Our final issue is maintenance and I believe Mariyka has found us a great solution.”
Dressed half as an engineer in worn overalls, Mariyka was also clutching her flying mask.
“I was due to test our latest MiG-29 rebuild when I remembered Nadia needed to learn about Janina Patriksson. She’s been a stalwart of the Engineering Department since she graduated over ten years ago but never left here. My team know her well and feels she’d assemble an ace squad once she starts scouting her sources.”
“I presume she understands copters—”
“Inside out, Nadia. Her small team maintains all the Academy helis. Ask Brajan and Igor… and they feel she’s more than ready for a bigger challenge. So, they won’t stop her from joining us.”
Nadia switched off her projections, adding that the Tigress Brigade was having a group dynamics session over a meal at 2000… when they also expected further news from Spain.
Vasy turned to Kalyna.
“I am pleased to report the Night Witches are again at full strength, although two of our five flights are focused on training on the four makes of jets here: Hornets, Gripens, MiGs, and eventually F-16s. As with pilot training so too with the crucial ground crew, we must be thorough. The foreign trainers will be here in the next few days, for another month of F-16 and Gripen E advanced sessions.”
“Didn’t we also discuss the need for ensuring the recruits especially could handle jets and rotary craft in an emergency…or at least some of them?”
“Although both Aleks and I can fly fixed wing and rotary,” said Nadia. “I sense that most of the recruits like our experienced pilots find learning on two different craft confusing. If it’s optional, there may be more volunteers wanting to learn.”
The others looked at each other and agreed.
“I suggest we adjourn,” said Mariyka. “We can meet again for a meal at the Zvenigora… say at 2000… if the Tigress Streak hasn’t devoured everything.”
After two weeks of investigating the Snipex factory in Kharkiv, Geralt and Ji-Yeon secured the storage of all the sensitive blueprints, ensuring they had copies in the office management had given them.
Ostensibly they were checking on the viability of the Snipex receiving funding from the South Korean firearms manufacturer responsible for arming most frontline units of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces. The company also produced ROKAF’s standard sniper rifle and might wish to acquire a license to produce Snipex for the lucrative Far Eastern market.
“I suspect ROKAF themselves could adopt the Snipex,” said Ji-Yeon. “The South Korean arms industry has found a lucrative market in Eastern Europe—”
“Ever since Putin invaded Ukraine, my country has been spending billions of dollars buying your arms,” said Geralt. “Although persuading my GROM superiors to sign off on that KAI LAH proved difficult, even saying it was part of the smuggling investigation—”
“And it wasn’t costing Poland anything, just burying South Korea’s arms to Ukraine.”
There was a knock at the office door. It was the factory manager, Ruslan Baran.
“We’ve been invited to a meal tomorrow evening by one of our suppliers. I’ve been running some checks on his activities and something feels wrong. Just drop round to my flat at 6 after work and I’ll explain on the way to his place. Better dress smart, he thinks he’s posh.”
**
Saturday, June 1st – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
The twelve members of the Tigress Brigade were sitting at one of the long tables opposite the restaurant’s kitchen. Aleks was in the far corner of the table, talking to one of the first graduates to join, Marusya Dudziarz.
“I’ve been wondering for days if you’re part Polish like me?”
“By our surnames… yes. I guessed Górski meant you were. But my Ukrainian mum wanted me to go to Kharkiv to be near our home in the east.”
Aleks grinned. “Opposite for me as my Polish dad persuaded me to join the Polish Air Force after I trained here at Dęblin.”
Marusya’s friend Raisa Vezzoso looked around at all the familiar faces and nodded.
“Awesome how we’ve all committed to sacrificing our lives for Ukraine, yet we also carry other genetics if you look at our names. You’re both Polish and Ukrainian. I’m Ukrainian-Italian—”
“While Nadia is French-Canadian and Canadian-Ukrainian,” added Aleks. “It’s the diaspora settling our ancestors in troubled times worldwide. Now our motherland is threatened, the descendants return to defend our precious heritage.”
“And others fear our plight, so we’ve become an international army. You know our fellow graduate, Odrija Kalniņa is Latvian. But she too has ancestors who suffered under the Soviet yoke,” said Raisa. “What we need is a group event to bring us together… like a birthday celebration; Whose is next?’
Everyone glanced along the table.
Raisa pointed at her friend, Marusya. “Yours is soon… how old?”
“Wednesday, June 5th and I’m going to be a scary 27. Suggestions please – no strippers. I’m a strong-willed fighting woman.” She got a sheet of paper from the bar and started with a list of challenges like darts, bowling, running, soccer, and swimming. Then invited votes, comments, and even suggestions. Finally, the sheet was passed along the table.
All down the table as the birthday challenge sparked ideas, friends made discoveries, shared hidden dreams and dared to skim along the thin edges of their fears. And food and drink inspired ideas and new ambitions that might bear invaluable fruit.
And the challenge reached a new milestone when it passed onto the far end of the table nearest the door. With the arrival of latecomers, Nadia was juggling with a dilemma and a sense of impending embarrassment for someone.
Marusya’s challenge had to wait its turn.
First, Nadia had to ask Agnieszka to add an extra table section for at least one more Tigress, Janina Patriksson, an oversight the supreme mechanic might take offence over.
“It might seem to you, dear Nadia, that you’re worried I’m the 13th person at this table. Forget it, your clever hostess has laid these extra places so your table now seats fifteen.”
“Who else are we expecting?” asked Polina Moroz, scanning the challenge sheet and casting a crucial vote.
“Nobody tonight,” said Nadia. “Maybe tomorrow or the next day, we’ll receive the helicopters from Canada and Spain. Possibly South Korea. So, maybe some of our fixed-wing sisters are joining us.”
Janina whispered something to Nadia who replied, “That’s unexpected.”
Then the restaurant door opened and a figure in black walked in. All the ladies sighed… not all in anticipation.
Aaron Garcia made a determined move towards the Tigress table, stopping in front of Nadia and casually saluting her.
“The Spanish Tiger is on its way, lady boss.”
A Spanish Army Tiger HAD at the International airshow, in Madrid, Spain: Photo: David Álvarez López
Unaware of Nadia winking at Janina, and oblivious to them writing on the challenge sheet, Aaron sat down adjacent to Polina and leaned towards her.
“What do you recommend for a starving traveller?”
She pointed to the menu board. “The Spicy Special.” Then she leaned back.
He went quiet once he’d ordered.
Suddenly he stared at Polina mystified. She smiled back.
“Not what you expected when you started playing footsie with my left leg.”
“It’s prosthetic, yet you fly a helicopter.”
“Brilliantly. And she scores goals playing soccer,” said Nadia. “Serious question. Did you feel any of the inappropriate leg groping, Polina?”
Aaron was bright red as Polina answered.
“Not exactly. But I have trained my leg to know when it encounters a solid object… like a soccer ball or a foot pedal. It’s more akin to the phantom pain I first got when I lost the limb.”
“So, basically… not a… positive sensation. I was totally out of order… unforgivable.”
He dropped his head in his hands… until a strong pair of arms pulled him out of his chair. He turned to face an angry dark-haired man.
“Meet my boyfriend, Dmytro Kovalchuk, we met at Superhumans. You better apologize before he shows you what he can do with a prosthetic right leg.”
The restaurant door swung open, and two women walked in.
“What are you going to do to my Aary? Only I get to hit him… or my co-pilot, Adelita.”
Nadia stood up and said, “No fighting in here, please. Save it for the orcs.” She directed the Spanish duo to the seats beside Janina… as Aaron and Dmytro were left looking aimless. ”This table is for Tigress sisters only.”
Fortunately, Sergei was around to direct wayward male egos to the male-only table where he had been listening to Brajan and Igor extolling the virtues of women pilots. They passed him a message from his journalist colleagues, which he read and his smile returned.
“If their latest scheme, called ‘Fund a Fighting Tiger’, bears fruit, especially with our help, the ladies might have another reason to celebrate.”
Meanwhile, Polina was hearing about the secret before Aaron arrived.
“I saw him wandering purposefully while I was on duty,” said Janina. “So, I checked in our welcome Spanish arrivals while he was plotting.”
“She ensured we all moved our Tiger in the hangar with the two French ones,” said Conchita, “Then told us you were eating here.”
“It’s the regular haunt for all of us Night Witches,” said Nadia. “I hope you’re offering to join us… we could use ace pilots like you. The more experience in the Brigade, the faster our graduates will learn.”
Polina revealed her prosthetic leg. “And not get shot down like me. A valuable lesson they need to understand.”
“You’re brave to come back,” said Adelita. “Some wouldn’t.”
Nadia glanced down the table at her courageous Tigress sisters, sensing more coming and the crucial need for more copters.
She glanced again at the challenge sheet, nodded down the table at Marusya Dudziarz, and then ensured everyone around her voted for the more exciting options.
Finally, she took the challenge sheet to the fixed-wing pilots who would make the event memorable.
**
Sunday, June 2nd – Kotliary, Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine
Kotliary, Kharkiv Oblast: Photo – MrQugen
Driving up the remote lakeside property, Geralt and Ji-Yeon squeezed hands.
“Dangerously or conveniently close to the Russian border,” said Geralt pointing at the boathouse.
“He had a float plane in there,” said Ruslan Baran, the factory manager. “Before the invasion, but it might still be there.”
He got out of his car. “There’s more if you just follow me… and let him do most of the talking.”
The stone-flagged path led to a covered porch with an intercom security camera, which rang a bell inside. A tall silver-haired man dressed in a tweed suit and tie opened the heavy timber door.
“Good evening, Aliaksandr,” said Ruslan before their host led them into a room with a panoramic window, obviously triple-glazed.
“Are these your investors, Ruslan? Explain while I get the correct drinks.”
“Captain Song Ji-Yeon is a Republic of Korea Army arms expert looking for investment opportunities for the burgeoning South Korean arms industry. She was drawn to XADO-Holding due to the success of the Snipex.”
“To warm us all up, here’s some glasses of traditional Sbiten, our own mulled wine… the best you can find.”
Aliaksandr served the Sbiten in frosted glasses with silver holders. The honey, ginger, and spices made for a relaxed mood as they sat watching the sunset over the lake.
“Every day I’m fortunate to be here, I fish and dream of better times when there was no violence. War is destroying everything precious. It’s harsh times when we have to sell arms to survive, don’t you remember the good times, Ruslan when it was all about cars? When XADO was only into car maintenance, not sniper rifles.”
He went quiet for a few minutes. But then he stood and led his guests to a polished oak table.
“Let’s eat. My housekeeper made us Slavonski Fiš Paprikaš, that’s Slavonian Freshwater Fish Stew using today’s catch, plus she made borsht, salad, and blinis. And a proper meal has to be served with vodka… or kompot for the drivers.”
The meal was superb, although Geralt soon noticed the weapons displayed all around the room along with trophy heads interspersed. Had these weapons brought down the prey? Possibly except over the fireplace was a SnipeX Alligator Mega Rifle with no obvious trophies.
Eventually, Ji-Yeon asked which weapon Aliaksandr was seeking investment for.
“My private design, the Kotliary Aliaksov, is a Bullpup though like the Polish MSBS Grot B, whose predecessor the Grot C16 FB-M2 assault rifle has been getting extensive use by the Ukrainian Ground Forces in Russia’s Special Military Operation. The US Special Forces Command has also bought into Grot, so here’s the chance for ROKA and your arms industry to get involved upfront in another homegrown success. I can supply all the crucial paperwork this evening…after dessert.”
“I presume you have a prototype I can try somewhere nearby.”
As they’d arrived, Geralt had spotted the hidden range, so he wasn’t surprised at Aliaksandr Ivanov’s reply.
“Of course. My private range will be ready after you’ve sampled my selection of teas.”
He quickly called his security detail as the housekeeper brought in some Vatrushka pastries and tea.
*
Although the night sky was bright enough to walk beside the lake, the firing range was hidden until lights came on as they neared the depressed viewing gallery.
Aliaksandr was carrying three rifle cases suggesting they were all intended to shoot. However, instead, there were two different variants of the prototype and a case of modifications.
“This is the B for Bullpup prototype on the left, and right is the assault rifle, carbine, configuration which can mount a grenade launcher or other configurations from machine gun to sport civilian semi-auto variant. Extremely versatile in its proposed uses so a viable investment I’m sure you see.”
Ji-Yeon picked up the Bullpup and inspected, dismantled, reassembled it, and then turned to Aliaksandr.
“Please can I test-fire this impressive prototype?” As the body target was moved into the range, she added, “At its maximum range please.”
The target was moved to the end position, shrouded in low-hanging branches.
“To make it more realistic,” said their host. “You can crouch. And we can simulate weather effects too.” And he chuckled. “Even snow.”
Ji-Yeon crouched and loosed a burst of shots, all hitting mid-body centre-mass where all the vital organs would be.
Geralt whistled. “Impressive. Want to fire the assault rifle?”
As she picked up the rifle and ran through the same checks as she’d done with the Bullpup, Aliaksandr removed a controller from his left jacket pocket.
He pressed a button at the top. The rear wall of the range slid back, allowing three moving targets to patrol the new back wall, again shrouded in branches. This time shadows and night mist were added.
“You need more of a challenge to prove what sort of investor you are.”
A warning shiver went up Geralt’s spine. He casually inspected the Bullpup and he detected what he suspected. It wasn’t based on a Grot, it was a Grot… one made for Polish, not Ukrainian troops. Probably smuggled out of Poland.
Aliaksandr began a countdown and called out.
“Erratic pattern leading to countermeasures.”
Ji-Yeon threw herself into a prone position. Geralt grabbed the smuggled Grot Bullpup and rolled a few feet near her.
“Interesting behaviour for investors. If you handle what my range concocts, we can discuss more opportunities… back in the comfort of my home. Another tea, Ruslan?”
“Not right now, Aliaksandr. I’m intrigued to see this play out. An interesting challenge for your inventions.”
The devious host walked off, fumbling in his pocket once more.
Once Ji-Yeon and Geralt fired, hidden guns at the far end of the range forced them to seek better cover in a shallow ditch.
Ruslan crouched behind the console with the case of modifications. He removed one device and then slid the case over to Ji-Yeon, who attached the underbarrel grenade launcher to the assault rifle.
As Geralt continued to fire bursts of bullets from the Bullpup, Ji-Yeon launched explosive grenades at the concealed machine guns at the far end of the range. She then followed with some smoke projectiles down the length of the range.
“When we’re ready let’s move to the truck.”
Three ready calls.
“Go on 3,” said Geralt. “1,2, THREE.”
They ran crouched to Ruslan’s pick-up, ensuring they had the guns and modifications.
As Ruslan accelerated away from the range, he said, “I didn’t feel like staying for his tea.”
Behind them, there was a muffled explosion and a glow.
“A final modification to Aliaksandr’s range console, courtesy of a dissatisfied factory manager.”
“We will,” said Geralt. “There were lots of signs culminating with that ridiculous firearms display. These guns aren’t prototypes but smuggled Polish Grots.”
“I suspect some of those guns displayed in the house were illegal too,” said Ji-Yeon. “Especially that Alligator blatantly exposed in the manner…”
The blast from the ambush drone blew the truck off the road. Bullets from the second drone were meant to ensure there were no survivors. But Geralt ended its attempt with the MSBS Grot B, and then dragged two bleeding bodies from the wreckage as he called for assistance.
*
They found him clutching Ji-Yeon and failing to stifle the sobs.
“She kept begging me to protect Chae-Yeong as she would protect me. Chae-Yeong? Who is she? I want Ji-Yeon… but I failed to save her.”
Medics had kept Ruslan alive and talking. He tried to make sense of the tragedy.
“We’ve exposed a traitorous smuggler, but he tried to silence us. Ji-Yeon hasn’t died in vain. Geralt tried to save both of us, but she was hit too badly. But he bugged Aliaksandr’s home so his smuggling ring will be broken.” Ruslan stopped and looked at the lost couple. “Ji-Yeon and Geralt are the heroes here.”
**
Monday, June 3rd – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
Nadia, Aleks, and the Chayka cousins watched the controllers track the incoming craft in the busy control tower.
“One Chayka Air C-130 Hercules clear to land on the main runway,” said Controller 1.
“When the runway’s open, I have an internal flight,” said Controller 2. “From Wrocław Airport, but it’s a South Korean KAI LAH assigned to GROM. Is this one expected?”
Nadia realised Ji-Yeon and Geralt had secured the promised KAI LAH.
“It’s one of ours so let it land, please. Any others?”
She looked at her colleagues wondering if they might have heard other rumours.
“Aliona, my daughter mentioned a second helicopter from Canada. Is anything showing on the radar or communications? Or we could ask the Hercules crew?” said Vasy.
“Control to C-130. Did one or two copters accompany you?”
“C-130 to control. One Griffon in our hold. Refueled Black Hawk mid-Atlantic before it landed at RAF Valley, North Wales. As we’re twice as fast, expect them tonight… before we leave.”
Vasy scribbled a message.
“Major Chayka says ‘Reception party before leaving’. Over and out.”
The welcoming meal was the usual Witches Ukrainian spread and all the day’s arrivals were invited, especially those heading home.
“You’re spending the night here,” said Agnieszka. “Courtesy of Zvenigora, the Night Witches’s second home. Better introduce them to the regulars, Kalyna.”
“By craft then, Chayka’s first,”
“I’m Aleksandr, pilot of the Hercules reluctantly leaving after all this hospitality. And my crew are Dariy, Leonid, Fedir and Martyn. We brought a Griffon with two Chayka Air recruits.”
“And I am the Griffon pilot Xenia Ahlberg and this is Iryna Forsberg, my flight engineer. We graduated through the RCAF and we’re Canadian Ukrainians with Swedish dads. We are anxious to find a co-pilot, our third crew member here.”
Nadia turned to the two Koreans. “We are grateful when non-Ukrainians join our fight, so, welcome. What brings you both to make this gesture?”
“I am Captain Jeong Chae-Yeong formerly of the Republic of Korea Air Force, and for this flight, my co-pilot was my Crew Chief, Warrant Officer Kang Eun-Ji.”
“You say formerly. Aren’t you returning?” asked Vasy. “Or were you intending to stay over here?”
Chae-Yeong went silent, exchanging a nod with Kang Eun-Ji.
“Perhaps, if the situation is better here. We transferred to the Republic of Korea Army recently. Captain Song Ji-Yeon recommended us for the KAI LAH training. Then we volunteered to help over here.”
Nadia wondered if she was responsible for letting these Koreans know what had gone wrong with the smuggling investigation… her investigation. Not Geralt’s responsibility. Her stomach felt sick at what she knew.
“Captain Jeong, please can I talk to you both privately… outside?”
Agnieszka touched her shoulder. “My office is small but warmer. Follow me, please ladies.”
*
It had been emotionally taxing, but Nadia was relieved she had told Chae-Yeong and Eun-Ji about the assassination of Ji-Yeon. Now she had to find them the ideal co-pilot and had one in mind.
However, as she glanced at the growing crews and pondered the craft they had, she wondered if she had created an unwieldy brigade in her enthusiasm and willingness to accept any donated craft.
Three Tiger attack aircraft, one KAI LAH armoured helicopter, two multi-role utility helicopters, and one utility passenger transport helicopter.
“We’re not a Tigress Brigade, nor a Tiger Ambush nor a Tigress Streak, just some mish-mash of rotor blades. Who am I fooling?” she whispered, unaware of the silent crowd about to cheer her.
And they did, then all shouted ‘Slava Ukrayini’ followed by the Ukrainian national anthem.
“Our journalist trio have just announced their ‘Fund a Fighting Tiger’ campaign has attracted two more,” said Aleks. “From the Australian Army and the German Bundeswehr,plus funds, maybe not enough for one more, but enough for substantial supplies.”
Profinansuyte biytsivsʹkoho tyhra
Fund a Fighting Tiger
Ufunduj Walczącego Tygrysa
**
Tuesday, June 4th – Aviation Engineering Centre, Dęblin Military Air Base, Poland
Geralt Sówka parked the jeep at the side of the Engineering Centre and let the three volunteers from XADO out of the back. He led them into the Engineering hangar, looking for Mariyka Shevchuk.
She noticed him first and guessed why he was there.
“You’re after our new helicopter maintenance team, Geralt. They had to move as they have six copters to service now.”
“They’ll be glad of these three volunteer monkeys from the Snipex factory. They’re keen to turn their hands to rotary-wing aircraft. Where can I find the new team?”
Mariyka explained how Master Engineer Anatol Krakarth and the heli-tutors had found a hangar in which the University stored old equipment. It hadn’t taken much to clear the space for the maintenance of the Tigress Brigade’s growing fleet.
It wasn’t long before Geralt introduced himself and the volunteers to Janina Patriksson. She in turn presented Warrant Officer Kang Eun-Ji and Iryna Forsberg who were the rare maintenance crew who flew if needed.
He knew at once that Eun-Ji must know Chae-Yeong.
His body betrayed him. He shivered and heard Ji-Yeon’s voice. Her words ‘protect Chae-Yeong’ kept repeating in his head. He clutched his head, muttering ‘protect Chae-Yeong… I must protect Chae-Yeong’.
Eun-Ji smiled and took his hand.
“I know. Nadia Lysenko told us what happened. I’ll take you to my Captain, Jeong Chae-Yeong.”
*
Tears hovered behind Geralt’s words as he attempted to relive Ji-Yeon’s last mission for Chae-Yeong and pay tribute to a person whose soul he had touched.
Yet ever since she had died in his arms after that horrific ambush, he had felt guilty.
“She believed I could protect her. As I was special forces… a GROM officer, then I would be her bodyguard.” He closed his eyes, but all he could see was her blood.
“She believed I could pose as Ukrainian. But that smuggler knew what I was… so she died in my unsafe hands. Now all I see is her bleeding body… and hear her telling me to protect Chae-Yeong. You, but how when I failed her?”
Chae-Yeong consulted with Eun-Ji in Korean, and although Ji-Yeon had taught Geralt some key phrases, it wasn’t enough for him to follow their conversation.
“We have an idea, which will allow you to fulfill your obligation to Ji-Yeon and me. But we must talk to Nadia and the squadron commanders. Come with us, please.”
*
Ten minutes later, they were in the Night Witches office with the Chayka majors, Nadia, and one of the Kharkiv recruits.
“We believe you have a suggestion, Captain Jeong.”
“Forgive the intrusion, but Kapitan Geralt Sówka presents me with both a problem and an obligation to Captain Song Ji-Yeon. She requested Geralt protect me, yet he is not part of my crew or this squadron. However, do we have any regular security other than our volunteer patrols?”
“Nothing regular, although our patrols are armed and use armoured vehicles. But we rely on our ground crews too much.”
“Geralt, could you supply and train a ground patrol to GROM standards… with female personnel?”
He hesitated, assessing the impact on his regular work. Yet, he wasn’t ready to abandon his new friends. Not yet or not ever. There was a future here. Chae-Yeong wasn’t Ji-Yeon but there was something about her.
“If you could recruit suitable military police,” asked Vasy. “Could we expect them to pledge allegiance to Ukraine?”
“No doubt. Many Poles want to help… and Ukrainian refugees here still want to help.”
“An excellent suggestion, Chae-Yeong. Start when you can, Geralt… and we’ll work on uniforms,” said Kalyna. “I think you have something to add, Nadia.”
The Tigress Brigade leader nodded.
“You need a second pilot for your KAI LAH, Chae-Yeong, and this recruit beside me, Cadet Raisa Vezzoso, is keen to prove herself. Tomorrow’s trials at the range would be an ideal challenge.”
Mid-May, so it must be time for another episode of Freedom Flights. This month, I’m taking a different approach with some of the Night Witches going on a road trip from Dęblin in Poland to Kharkiv on the Eastern Front, where since the trip was planned the Russians have launched some border incursions. Episode 22 continues the road trip before the attacks on some border settlements, which could cause a change to their destinations.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. At least the aid bill passing means we can hope, pray, and breathe again.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page on the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 21 – Right To Exist
2024
Friday, April 26th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
A MiG-29 Fulcrum takes off from Starokostiantyniv Air Base, Ukraine, Oct. 9 as part of the Clear Sky 2018 exercise. The exercise promotes regional stability and security, while strengthening partner capabilities and fostering trust. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Charles Vaughn)
Although Kalyna had been sure of her facts when Maksym first spoke to her about the Ukraine-wide scramble, she wondered now if there were the right pilots to assemble an effective MiG-29 flight.
He must have detected confidence when she added the option of sending their attack helicopter… whichever helped more.
“If you leave Dęblin now while Vasy travels to Kharkiv, where does that leave the squadron? You two and Ksenia created this unique asset for the UAF… even if some haven’t recognized that yet.”
“There are other excellent leaders—”
“None with Chayka’s contacts, such as our Gripen future. Instead, I believe Kapitan Nadia Lysenko and her Tiger are another asset we mustn’t ignore.”
Kalyna was sure Maksym was plotting something, and knowing he saw a key role for the squadron, she played along.
“With the Gripens we now have and all the facilities Saab has made available, I’m willing to concentrate my energy on our Swedish future. But until the F-16s are combat-ready, what then?”
“You use your MiG-29s to keep Russian rockets, missiles, and drones from our skies.”
“And our helicopters to chase smugglers?”
Kalyna knew there was more, but when Maksym was ready.
“I need to come back to Dęblin and chat with you and your copter guys about your contacts. Meanwhile, I wondered what you know about the Sikorsky Brigade fighting in Ukraine. Is 2100 at the Zvenigora Restaurant a good time to meet?”
“Definitely, Aleks Górski will be back from her Puszczyk run. Do you need the two trainers there?’
“Their input is imperative.”
**
Saturday, April 27th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
“If Maksym Bondarenko asked about the Sikorsky Brigade,” said Igor. “He’s head-hunting Nadia… or they want her chopper.”
“Never,” replied Kalyna. “He knows her value to us.”
“Very true,” said Maksym as he came in through the door behind them, letting Agnieszka escort the group to their usual discreet table.
“Good to see you again, sir,” said Brajan. “We weren’t sure what would bring you back with all the attacks.”
Kalyna arranged the seating as Maksym answered.
“All the attacks requiring every squadron scrambling, made me realise it was time to get ahead of the enemy. Especially as some of this team are already acting upon their concerns.”
“You mean my cousin Vasy and our goddaughter Carita chasing more recruits at the Kharkiv National Air Force University.”
“And Ji-Yeon and Geralt investigating disappearing Alligators from the Xado factory in Kharkiv,” said Nadia. “And would I be correct in guessing the secretive Sikorsky Brigade operate attack helicopters somewhere along the Eastern Front?”
A Ukrainian army helicopter returns from a combat mission near Bakhmut, described by President Zelensky as currently “the most difficult out of all” areas in Ukraine. Photo: Sarah Dean/CNN
Maksym wondered how much the Witches and friends had pre-empted his plan. Or was that Nadia’s deduction?
“Few know where they are, which puts the Russians at a disadvantage and keeps the Sikorsky Brigade alive and dictating the fight – but not forever. The Brigade is fighting with dated weapons and guile.”
“Whereas we have a superb advanced bird… but only one,” said Nadia. “So, how do we help them?”
“By forming a Night Witches Brigade,” replied Aleks. “Except where do we find more copters and pilots?”
Maksym looked round the table. “Which is why we are here… for ideas.”
“We never had many copters at Chayka Air,” said Kalyna, as she began creating a chart on her notepad. “I’ll create a spreadsheet we can all access and update on the cloud with verification. I’ll also check Chayka’s inventory and ask our team for viable contacts… plus give my daughter Aliona access to the file as she’s Acting CEO.”
“When I talked to Ji-Yeon about Korea’s S&T Motiv K14 sniper rifle,” said Nadia. “She mentioned they only operate rotary-wing aircraft. Maybe if she asks, they might donate something to us.”
“What about your Airbus contacts?” asked Brajan. “Another Tiger would make you formidable. I think fighting in pairs is a valid tactic.”
“But again, don’t we need combined support from ground and air?” added Igor.
Maksym nodded and ordered food. “More priorities.”
**
Saturday, April 27th – Kalyniv Airfield near the Polish border
The convoy was spaced at secure intervals around the airfield in groups of three vehicles. Each group had camouflage netting to deter unwanted watchers.
Before Aleks flew back to Dęblin in the Puszczyk, she had offered anyone the last chance to return if they no longer wished to make the trip across Ukraine.
Once their encampment was set up, Vasy, Carita, Mariyka and the cadets headed for the Kalyniv canteen to meet the three Witches Flights as the pilots returned from sorties against the nightly Russian attacks.
Only a few ground crew sat in the canteen eating, and a lonely figure was drinking at the bar.
She turned and smiled when she saw the Squadron leader.
“Major Chayka… when did your flight arrive… Mariyka too?”
“We arrived in the convoy a few hours ago,” replied Vasy. “What about you, Tamila? I thought you were in a hospital in Lviv after you were shot down in January?”
As Vasy led them all to a table as they hadn’t eaten since lunch, Tamila explained.
“You’ll remember I baled out but stupidly smashed my ankle when I hit the ground. Well, the doctor thought it might have to be amputated.” The listeners gasped as she continued. “I was taken to the Superhumans Center in Wynnyky, near Lviv. As an orthopaedic clinic for the treatment of war victims dependent on a prosthesis due to amputation, they decided my ankle could be saved.”
“Great for you,” said Vasy. “They are doing amazing work with their patients, and one of our aid vehicles is going there already—”
“This is a story I must cover,” said Carita. “If that’s possible… and can Tamila come with me please, Vasy?”
“This keen journalist is my goddaughter, Carita Forsström. And this brave pilot is Lieutenant Tamila Medved, who flew with Gold Flight. I’m sure we can arrange for you both to visit the Superhumans Center, and then rejoin us.”
“Where are you going to, Vasy?”
She was about to explain when the flights started returning.
*
Tamila’s face lit up when Gold Flight came into the canteen and she embraced her Flight Leader, Anzhela Havrylyuk.
“Another safe sortie I see.”
“Thanks to my precious Larisa and her wizard ground crew. How soon before the doc passes you fit to handle g-forces?”
“Next week when I’m back from Kharkiv. First, tomorrow I’m taking this journalist, Carita Forsström to visit Superhumans at Wynnyky. Then, we’re going with Major Vasy to meet students at Kharkiv National Air Force University… and maybe recruit some to the Night Witches.”
“Good luck persuading Kharkiv National Air Force University students,” said Anzhela. “My year we were tough to persuade on anything— “
“If we mention one of our most hardheaded Flight Leaders was a Kharkiv graduate,” said Vasy from the next table. “Will we have every daredevil student volunteering?”
“Guaranteed. I just hope Mariyka, that without you and your absentee cadets here, there will be enough MiG-29s for these recruits.”
“Or other craft, given what my cousin implied in confidence earlier this evening. No guessing. We may make a crucial stopover in a few days, which might reveal more. For now, we must split up our unwieldy convoy as some vehicles have different stops to make, like delivering humanitarian supplies. On Thursday, May 2nd, we will rendezvous at another secured base nearer Kharkiv… details to be given to a few trusted individuals later tonight.”
**
Sunday, April 28th – Orthodox Easter – Superhumans Center, Wynnyky, Lviv Oblast
“Over 10,000 of our people have lost limbs since Russia invaded in February, two years ago. Your friend Tamila was one of the lucky fighters not to need a prosthesis—”
“But I realise if a limb gets trapped before I eject, it was close.” Tamila shivered then asked, “Have you fellow aviators here… with prosthetics?”
“Yes. I can introduce you to Dmytro Kovalchuk.”
Tamila and Carita were led in a gym equipped with some impressive training equipment, although more amazing were those clients using everything. Men, women, even some kids, all with ingenious prosthetics that barely impaired them from exercising themselves to their maximum ability. And all under careful and expert supervision.
Outside on a sports court laid out for ball games and a running track, a dark-haired bearded man and a long blonde-haired woman were kicking a soccer ball to each other, then dribbling the ball skillfully down a line of cones. Both had prosthetic legs from one hip… Dmytro to the right, and the woman on the left.
Their nurse-guide persuaded them both to talk sitting on a bench outside running track, with Tamila agreeing to translate for Carita if necessary. Having introduced themselves, Carita asked Dmytro to explain his experience.
“I flew a Sukhoi Su-27 from the beginning of the war, moving from base to base to outwit the orcs. But last January, my flight strayed too close to some concealed troops…” He paused and closed his eyes. “All I remember is ejecting after being hit by some MANPAD missile. Luckily I sensed something so baled fast… but my seat failed, blowing off some of my lower right leg.”
“Dmytro blacked out,” said the nurse. “He was fortunate a medic unit found him, staunched the bleeding, treated him as best they could. He was taken to a medical station, who saved what they could of his leg, before sending him here.”
Dmytro stood and did some stretches, before concluding his survival tale.
“Although I regained consciousness a few times, it was here at Superhumans when I realised that I had friends to aid my struggle, from the moment my new limb was fitted, through all the therapy to help me adapt and use it, to now when others just like me are developing skills I would never believe were possible. Fun moments of skill like this ball control.”
Carita whispered a question to the nurse-aide who waved a hand in agreement.
“Do you want to fly again? In combat?”
“Both of course. It might take time, but I am already getting help relearning skills using my prosthetic friend… and UAF has installed a simulator a few of us use, like Polina here.”
Tamila turned to Polina and asked, “You were a pilot too? What did you fly?”
“Mil Mi-17s, an old Russian military helicopter, although they’re using more modern ones. Unfortunately, I was thrown straight into action having passed out of Kharkiv National Air Force University a few months before the invasion. The craft I was co-pilot in barely escaped Kharkiv when the Russians captured the city, but we were shot down a few months later in August while relocating for medivac duties well behind the front. My pilot died in the crash, but the engineer dragged me clear of the wreckage. We hardly had much fuel left, but enough left so there was an explosion that tore my leg apart.”
“And your engineer got you both to the med station you were heading for. But you lost your leg and the engineer his right arm. Both came to Superhumans for treatment.”
Carita and Tamila glanced at each other, and then the Swede said, “Strange coincidence, Polina. We’re going to your University to interview female students… and to find recruits for our all-women squadron… the Night Witches even have two helicopters, a PZL SW-4 Puszczyk and a Eurocopter Tiger.”
“Awesome. I’ve flown a Puszczyk but only dreamt of flying in a Tiger. Two Tigers could seriously damage the enemy… especially with the NATO jets we’re promised.” She did some stretches to prove her fitness, then turned to the aide. “Nurse Borysova, have I recovered well enough to travel to Kharkiv National Air Force University with these fellow fighters, please?”
“Polina Moroz, I see no objection as long as your therapists agree. We can ask them after this evening’s Easter Service.”
“I hope you have room for another Witch with you, Carita and Tamila.”
As they agreed, Polina embraced them, and then kissed Dmytro.
“I won’t forget what we’ve shared these many months… and I’ll stay in touch as long as life lets us.”
*
Sunday, April 28th – Orthodox Easter – Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Lypivka, Kyiv Oblast, Ukraine
Vasy, Mariyka, and the three cadets followed their local driver Andriy past the fruit trees towards the austere edifice with its red domes.
As they passed over the supplies and funds for rebuilding the church, he introduced them to the tenacious local priest.
“The fighting for our village was right here,” the Rev. Hennadii Kharkivskyi said. He pointed to the churchyard, where a memorial stone commemorated six Ukrainian soldiers killed in the battle for Lypivka.
“They were injured and then the Russians came and shot each one, finished them off,” he said.
Andrij explained how two years earlier, the building provided physical refuge from the horrors outside.
“Almost 100 residents including my grandparents sheltered in the basement chapel of this Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary while Russian troops occupied the village in March 2022 as they closed in on our capital, Kyiv, 60 kilometres to the east.”
He paused looking around at the ongoing repair work.
“Rebuilding our unique church plays a part in Ukraine’s struggle for culture, identity and its very existence. Inside is another world, follow me.”
It was a blaze of colour inside. “The vibrant red, blue, orange and gold panels decorating the walls and ceiling are beautiful,” said Mariyka.
“They are the work of Anatoliy Kryvolap,” said the priest. “He is an artist whose bold, modernist images of saints and angels make this church unique in Ukraine. He wanted to avoid the severe-looking icons he’d seen in many Orthodox churches and believed ‘that going to church to meet God should be a celebration’. Please, I pray you are joining us for today’s sacred ceremony.”
“Of course,” said Vasy. “That is why we chose to come with Andrij on this day.”
**
Monday, April 29th – Maidan Nezalezhnosti, Kyiv, Ukraine
The wide-cobbled Heroyiv Nebesnoyi Sotni Alley seemed the right direction to reach Maidan Square. Song Ji-Yeon’s directions had been spot-on so far. Unfortunately, the right-hand-drive British Deuce and a Half had struggled for the last few kilometres.
Geralt Sówka knew the brakes were overheating and with the hill ahead heading down into the square he faced a battle with them. He couldn’t rely on them at all. Instead, he kept shifting down through the truck’s 5-speed manual transmission. Plus its 2-speed transfer case gave the bonus of five extra gears to shift through.
Bombardier MLVW during a Canadian Forces army demonstration – Tyler Brenot
However, the weight of the truck with its passengers and cargo of essential equipment, made slowing the vehicle difficult. He even tried turning across the width of the road, avoiding all the parked vehicles and pedestrians.
Suddenly the road was blocked by a row of concrete planters. There was no room past them and going through the barrier felt reckless.
Then, glancing to one side, he saw a slip-road and threw a sharp left. Ji-Yeon was almost thrown into his arms. But the truck rolled to a stop.
Ji-Yeon flung her arms around him.
“Dramatic way you Poles get us girls… but I was impressed.”
She climbed out of the Deuce and a Half and pointed at the top of the memorial.
“That Statue of Berehynia, the Slavic Deity of Nature and Protection is appropriate and beautiful.”
“So, I’ll park and then we can go down and honour all the fallen heroes.’
She smiled and took two flags from inside her jacket, a Ukrainian and a South Korean, saying, “They’re a reminder of the sacrifices in the fight for freedom—”
“And the right to exist,” added Geralt, producing Ukrainian and Polish flags, before linking an arm with her nearest one.
On Independence Square in Kyiv, people put flags with the names of civilians and defenders killed by Russian invaders in Ukraine. This memorial is a place of remembrance and a reminder of the sacrifices in the fight for freedom. TinyStrawberry23 – reddit
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