This is Part Two of Episode 30 of Freedom Flights, which focuses on the rescue mission to Kursk. However, the search for Nadia may take several episodes. Please be patient.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes in preparing for just peace.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Monday, September 2nd – Staging ground, Sumy Oblast, Ukraine
Once the NH90 Caïman landed and its doors slid open, Osinniy greeted Cecilija.
“I never expected to meet again… well, not like this. I heard Ruslan and Albina were recuperating with your squadron. How come?”
“His sister Tamila flies with us. In fact, she’s flying in our fighter escort, which will join us when we leave. First, we need to get your equipment on board. You know we’re using two helicopters, as twenty stretchers are too many for an armed NH90 Caïman?”
Cecilija led the paramedic into the aircraft and showed her the dozen stretchers awaiting equipment and patients.
“This is the normal medevac layout,” she explained as two helicopters arrived outside. “Our Black Hawk normally takes six stretchers, meaning we’re two short of Command’s requirements. We have loaded two extra stretchers, but then there’s the weight problem on the return trip.”
“What about the third helicopter?” asked Osinniy when they returned outside.
“That’s one of our Tigers, an attack craft and extra defence in case we dispense with guns on the Black Hawk and Sierra. It’s one option depending on weight for the return leg.”
Aline joined them as Henrika emerged from the Black Hawk with Dasha.
“We better talk with the Commanding Officer,” said Aline. “Major Svitlana Heclyuk will need to discuss if the plan is unchanged. Of course, it has changed.”
The group met the Major and explained the extra helicopters, the two extra stretchers, and the weight issue.
“Couldn’t you leave any crew members?” asked Svitlana. “Then you could carry guns and dispense with the gunship.”
At this point, Polina and Marusya had walked over. The major registered Polina’s prosthetic foot… as had Osinniy.
“That was the first thought,” said Cecilija. “I’m the gunner and loadmaster on the NH90 Caïman. If you remember our last trip to Poltava, there were only 16 patients, 2 paramedics, equipment, no co-pilot, and no guns to make the weight. We’ve explored the options, and having a gunship is the safest way to protect twenty severely injured soldiers flying out of Kursk.”
“A gunship flown by a pilot with a prosthetic limb is safe?” asked Svitlana.
“One of our finest pilots and an ace goal scorer,” said Marusya.
Osinniy had bent down to inspect Polina’s leg politely.
“This is the best and most sophisticated prosthesis I’ve ever seen. No wonder she’s a brilliant all-rounder.”
*
Once Control cleared them for the dusk take-off, Aline took the lead in the NH90 Caïman, codenamed Sierra, followed by the Black Hawk Hotel piloted by Henrika and then Tiger Bravo with Polina. Her co-pilot, Marusya, was running a radar sweep, supplementing the data that Cecilija was collecting with the NH90 Caïman’s sensors.
Saab 340 AEWCS/S 100 B Argus in flight at the Swedish Armed Forces Airshow 2010. [Photo by Gnolam – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0]
A few 100 kilometres southwest in NATO Airspace, one of the two Saab 340 ASC 890s was flying at 6,100 metres and monitoring Ruby Flights’ four Gripen Cs.
“No Russian hostiles approaching your position. In one minute, you will be out of our radar’s range. Switch to Sierra’s detection and your own. Good hunting, Ruby. Over and out.”
Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko switched to night vision and dropped to 30 metres to cross the front line into Kursk. The three other Gripens followed her down.
“Ruby Leader to Sierra. We are closing in on you and ready to deal with Bears or Cubs. Over.”
“Sierra to Ruby. Take flank positions above Hotal Hawk. Follow the R200 to the landing zone west of Sudzha. Over.”
“Understood. Over and out.”
Adriana knew the R200 was the almost straight road from the frontier and an ideal runway for the Gripens if the surface had no bomb craters. All they needed was the night sky to stay clear or someone to put lights on the verges.
*
Gripen on Highway: A wonderful shot by Tim Jansson of JAS 39 #Gripen on a road base in #Sweden. Truck drivers getting a free airshow! Photo: http://jugg.se#avgeek
Sudzha, Kursk Oblast, Russia
Lieutenant Mykhail Moroz watched the seven approaching aircraft in his night vision binoculars. When they were within 1000 metres of the roundabout, he ordered his men to turn on the Marder’s lights, signalling the vehicles alongside the R200 to turn on their lights. Hopefully, the jet pilots would appreciate the runway.
The first required less distance to land than expected and then skillfully used the roundabout to clear the landing zone. It didn’t take the four jets long to land and position themselves on side roads. After refuelling them, volunteer mechanics covered them with camouflage netting before crossing to the helicopter area.
The lights had been killed, except those marking where the helicopters were landing. He leapt off the Marder and met the arrivals gradually gathering near the familiar NH90 Caïman. He was about to greet the crew when a pilot crept up behind him and spun him into a bear hug.
“Polina, nobody told me you were coming.”
“I had to check on my wayward brother. Glad to see you’re living up to your academy promise.”
“As you are, dearest sister.” He paused, noticing her bionic foot. “Even more so if you fly with that-“
“Prosthetic leg,” finished Marusya. “She even scores winning goals with a bicycle kick.”
A medic ran up to him.
“Lieutenant, I took the liberty of assisting the air paramedics in loading the patients.”
Mykhail followed the medic to the NH90 Caïman, where Osinniy, Cecilija, and Aline were checking the patients and equipment with another paramedic. He counted the fourteen stretchers, which were all full.
“How many more in the other helicopters?
“Six in the Black Hawk,” said Cecilija. “The third helicopter is the gunship flown by your sister and her co-pilot.”
“They can’t take any more wounded without being overweight,” said Osinniy. “Leaving any crew behind makes no sense.”
Dasha coughed. “Except me. I’m Dasha Isakova, the operative who needs to find Kapitan Nadia Lukyan, who was left last trip. But we can’t leave anyone else.”
“Okay,” said Mykhail. “Let’s check the Black Hawk.
Dasha, Cecilija, Aline, Osinniy, and the medic followed him to the second medevac. Henrika and her co-pilot, Beitris, had ensured their two paramedics had all six patients settled.
One paramedic turned to Osinniy.
“We’ve discussed our patients and have compiled notes on the most urgent cases for our arrival at Poltava Regional Hospital, whom we will warn when in safer airspace. We’re ready to leave when you are.”
“A good move, informing the hospital ahead of arriving. We both need to warn Poltava. Can we all leave soon, Lieutenant?”
“Immediately I receive clearance,” said Mykhail, climbing out of the Black Hawk.
Outside, Polina was waiting with Tamila Medved, who introduced herself to Osinniy.
“I’m Ruslan’s sister, and although you didn’t treat him in flight, you gave his partner, Albina, a life-saving transfusion. Many thanks, as they’re a great couple.”
“It was Cecilija’s blood… a team effort. Send the couple my congratulations and blessings.”
Air raid sirens blared across Sudzha, and people hurried to the shelters.
“It’s another attack launched from Khalino air base to the northeast,” said Mykhail as he directed his troops to aid the helicopters to leave. He turned to Aline. “If your three copters can take off now and follow the R200 into Ukraine, our artillery will buy you time.”
As Tamila ran back to the Gripens, she shouted, “We’ll surprise these Russians. They believe UAF aircraft won’t operate in Kursk. Too dangerous.”
He followed her.
A Sukhoi Su-30SM flying from Khalino air base in Kursk. Wikimedia Commons
“Beware, these Sukhoi Su-30SM are super agile. They regularly drop KAB glide bombs towards the city, ignoring that they’re killing their own people. Strike fast and dart away.’
The other Gripens were lined up facing southwest down the road home. Tamila was climbing into her jet when Dasha shouted.
“Listen for Ailes de Phénix.”
She nodded, knowing the words were important and must be remembered by every Night Witch. In the far distance, the three helicopters were disappearing towards the border pursued by drones.
Then, the flight took off one by one, and it was her turn. As they banked to the west, she radioed Adriana on the squadron’s scrambled frequency.
“Ruby Leader, the Russian attack is by Sukhoi Su-30SMs from the northeast, carrying KAB glide bombs, range 25 miles so vulnerable to surprise ambush. Meadow, over.”
“Agreed, Meadow. Ruby Flight, grasscutter approach. Intercept each Orc before the bomb drops. Use all four Meteors, then break southwards at Mach 2, hedgehopping. Over and out.”
The flight skirted Sudzha, heading north as low as possible before heading east on an intercept course.
“Ruby Flight. Orcs are attempting to scan our unfamiliar IDs. Now they’re changing heading to investigate. Prepare to fire Meteors when in range. If they fire first, activate countermeasures.”
Fortunately, the Russians were confused long enough for all four Gripens to fire their missiles. But then the enemy launched their own missiles, so the Gripens activated countermeasures.
“Break south. Oxen and Polar follow Meadow through city defences.”
Tamila knew Mykhail would ensure his forces didn’t target Gripens, only Sukhoi Su-30SMs. But she had to repeat the operative’s message.
“Dasha told me we must all ‘Listen for Ailes de Phénix’. Perhaps when they come back.”
Nobody answered, so she kept heading southwest. Behind her, she heard a distant explosion. Adriana? Had someone mistaken a Gripen for an Orc?
The flight kept heading to the border. Suddenly, a voice called on the radio.
“Mykhail here. You destroyed one Sukhoi Su-30, but drones have been launched from the Khalino air base. God speed.”
**
Tuesday, September 3rd – Front Line, Sumy Oblast, Ukraine
Aline crossed out of Kursk Oblast, and Cecilija confirmed that Polina and Marusya had destroyed the pursuing drones with Tiger Bravo’s armaments. Aleks radioed ahead to Poltava, giving their ETA, but their response shocked her.
“We’re dealing with a major emergency, which is swamping all hospital resources. You’ll need to find another facility.”
Cecilija waved Osinniy over.
“What happened?” asked Aleks.
“Two Russian missiles hit our military communications institute with devastating results. Dozens of injured are being pulled from the rubble. Dead too. Sorry, we can’t help your injured anymore.”
Osinniy dropped her head.
“Poltava is far from the war’s frontlines. This is crazy.” She looked at the digital map. “We could try Pryluky in Chernihiv Oblast.”
Aftermath of deadly Russian missile attack on Poltava military institute – video
This is Part One of Episode 30 of Freedom Flights. This episode sets up the rescue mission to Kursk in Part Two but deals with injuries that need to be addressed.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes in preparing for the just peace.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 30 – Perilous Pursuits
2024
Thursday, August 29th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
As dusk settled over Chayka Field, a flight of four unexpected jets approached the base. The controller, new to the squadron, challenged them.
“Unknown flight, please identify, this a training establishment. Over.”
“This is Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko previously of Blue Flight. We left our MiG-29s in Dęblin for repairs and are returning with Gripen Cs. Our call sign is now Ruby Flight; sorry for the confusion. Over.”
“Apologies for the oversight. Permission granted. Please land on Dispersed runway A. Over and out.”
Adriana led this first flight of Gripens back from Dęblin after sixteen gruelling hours of combat training. Major Ottillia Elmersson and Kapten Pernilla Eklund were keen to increase the time the four pilots got in the air, especially in the two Gripen Es. However, they had to rotate until they had four of this latest variant.
“I pray Alfhild is successful,” said Adriana on the radio to her first wing sister, Master Sergeant Oksana Shevchenko.
“She gives me confidence, and our trainers believe in her.’
Colonel Alfhild Falkborg returned to Sweden on Wednesday determined to obtain at least two more Gripen Es. She intended to talk to all her government, Swedish Air Force, and Saab contacts until she had equipped the Night Witches as the first Ukrainian Gripen squadron with as many Es as possible. Representatives of the Swedish Defence Industry were already in negotiations with Ukrainian businesses.
In the meantime, a select team of six mechanics had trained in Sweden on both Gripen variants, logistics, and the custom-made Saab smart support solution for maintenance. The six maintainers with the Saab-suppled equipment were waiting for the four Gripen Cs and directed the jets into their revetments for refuelling and overhaul.
Adriana turned to Senior Master Sergeant Anhelina Janda, who headed the Saab-trained team.
“You must be pleased to see Gripens in Ukraine finally?”
“It’s been a long wait. Worthwhile if we get to see them used in combat. We will train all the mechanics now that the whole squadron’s transitioning to Gripens.”
The Gripen E is among three fighter jets contending to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force fleet of CF-188 Hornets. Saab Photo
Adriana pointed to where excavations were almost finished.
“Are those going to be the new hardened aircraft shelters?”
“Reinforced underground hangers,” said Anhelina. “Eventually, for the whole squadron it seems. See you later in the canteen.”
Adriana led her three companions into the main building, where they changed out of their flying gear in the locker room before heading into the canteen.
“Usual drinks?” asked Master Sergeant Polina Melynk, who had been promoted at the same time as Oksana.
They all nodded and found a table.
Kapitan Maryna Sobol and Lieutenant Katia Antonov joined them.
“The new elite returns,” said Maryna, smiling. “We knew our Polina had been selected to fly Gripen Es, but not Zlata. We feel left out.” She nudged Katia.
“Major Kalyna is the fourth, not me,” said Private Zlata Kovalchuk. “I’m still flying the two-seater, not solo, as I need more hours… like most of us. I went to Dęblin to bring a Gripen C back.”
“And the training,” said Adriana. “It could be you, Maryna, next time… if you buy a round.”
*
At another table, Doctor Sacha Proulx and medic First Lieutenant Estera Sówka sat with Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk and Lieutenant Polina Moroz, discussing prosthetics with Olha’s vital family support, Anhelina Tkachuk and her husky Quetzal.
“I’ve examined you both thoroughly,” said Sacha. ‘you’re both 100% ready for your new prostheses. Estera has done everything your residual limb needed, Olha, and you are making all the right mental adjustments.”
“Having a friend like Polina who knows exactly what I’m dealing with is an enormous advantage,” said Olha. Quetzal put her head on Olha’s knee. “Not forgetting my cousin Anhelina and Quetzal, by my side whenever a shoulder… or furry paw is needed.”
As they all laughed, Adriana Pavlenko came over. “Who’s going to Superhumans tomorrow? Another road trip, I presume.”
“We were offered a helicopter,” said Estera. “But we all felt military needs came first.”
“Although, ensuring pilots recover is a military necessity,” said Sacha. “I have patients here, Ruslan and Albina, but the medics can cope for a day while I discover what the prosthetists recommend for their patients.”
Adriana smiled. “I guess a sixth would be a squeeze with five and a dog in the Toyota already.” She let them agree before adding, “Anyway, I’ve got another Gripen training session arranged for tomorrow with Maryna, Tamila, and Anzhela.”
“Don’t forget to ask about our access to a Gripen Mission Trainer simulator,” asked Olha. “I need to learn to fly a Gripen E.”
“I will,” said Adriana. “If they installed one at Dęblin, Poland might choose more Gripens over American-built jets.”
“The simulator would be safer in Poland than here,” said Polina. “Even if we’re a long way from the front, Russia targets all of Ukraine, so nowhere is safe yet.”
“We need to keep fighting.” Adriana stood up. “Good luck at Superhumans tomorrow. We need both of you ace pilots.”
“Every pilot is valuable now,” said Sacha. “It was a tragedy when Colonel Oleksiy “Moonfish” Mes, one of Ukraine’s best pilots, was lost on Monday defending us all. He was a hero who must never be forgotten. We must remember we are all mortal.”
Aleks, Aline and Dasha peered into the cavernous restaurant, wondering where Tamila and her brother were sitting.
“Who are you joining tonight?” asked Sergei. “Another good turnout for movie night. I hope we’ve chosen a good film.”
“You always do,” said Aleks. “We’re joining Tamila and Ruslan Medved’s group.”
“They’re with our other brave patients, Olha Tkachuk and Polina Moroz.”
“Don’t forget Albina then,” said Aline. “We hope she’ll be out of her wheelchair soon with Doctor Sacha’s help.”
Sergei directed them to a long table ideally positioned for the ceiling-mounted screen.
Seats had been saved in the centre of the group, which also included Estera, Adriana, Anhelina, and Quetzal, who was hiding under the table.
“She’ll emerge for any forbidden scraps,” said Anhelina. “And if she approves of the movie.”
“Does she bark her approval?” asked Dasha.
Almost everyone laughed.
“They remember her howling when the other K9s barked at the end of ‘Megan Leavey’, last month’s movie,” said Estera. “The movie did demonstrate the value of K9s.”
“Are these showings a regular event?” asked Albina. “It could be seen as a luxury.”
“Some of our guys were here for the last one and wondered the same thing,” replied Ruslan. “Yes, they are regular, but they help bond this sisterhood, giving them the strength to suffer casualties and losses but keep flying into danger.”
“It’s why some are planning to fly back to Kursk,” said Vasy, who was standing behind Aline. “The plan might be risky, but the authorities have approved it… with conditions. If those of you involved come to the Squadron Command Centre after the movie, Kalyna and I will update you.”
Vasy tapped Adriana on the shoulder.
“Please attend the meeting with Polina. We need your input.”
Nobody noticed when Vasy sat down with Henrika Visser and her Black Hawk crew for the meal.
When everyone moved onto the coffee stage, Mariyka Shevchuk introduced the evening’s film from under the screen.
“This evening’s movie is ‘Amelia’, the 2009 biographical film about the legendary aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. The film stars Hilary Swank as Earhart and co-stars Richard Gere, Ewan McGregor, Christopher Eccleston and Joe Anderson. The film was directed by Mira Nair and based on The Sound of Wings by Mary S. Lovell. The film had mixed reviews, yet for a squadron of women pilots, Amelia Earhart inspired thousands of women aviators, perhaps even some of the original Night Witches. I hope you are all inspired.”
Applause at the end of the film changed into numerous discussions.
“Amelia Earhart was certainly the most famous woman pilot of her time,” said Aline. “There are so many theories about her disappearance from capture by the Japanese to alien abduction. She also turned up in a Star Trek Voyager episode with her Lockheed Electra.”
“Fun but unlikely since her plane might have been discovered,” said Aleks. “In January, Deep Sea Vision, an ocean exploration company based in South Carolina, announced it captured compelling sonar images of what could be Earhart’s Electra at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.”
“How compelling?” asked Aline. “Someone will attempt to disprove it. However, we must get to our crucial exploration meeting.”
*
Squadron Command Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
When Adriana and Polina sat at the table in the Centre, people were still drifting in.
“Any idea why we’re invited to this meeting,” asked Adriana. “All Vasy said was that she and Kalyna needed our input. Seems others are providing that too.”
“I had mentioned that my leg made me an unlikely spy. But that was before Dasha appeared… a real operative.”
“That reminds me, how are you and Olha adapting to your new prosthetics?”
“They’re both doing amazingly,” said Sacha as he sat beside Polina. “Our pilot here seems to have found she has more control of her helicopter. Olha has more dexterity and is looking forward to using the Gripen simulator when it arrives at Dęblin.”
“I’m hoping Alfhild can weave her magic,” said Adriana as her Senior Master Sergeant, Anhelina Janda, joined her.
“Any idea why I’m here?” asked Anhelina Janda. “Our Gripens?”
“Likely… but don’t ask why?”
The room had filled up in the meantime, and Vasy closed the door.
Kalyna switched on a projection of the map Dasha had produced.
“As you all have registered who is at this mission update, you must realise the rescue of Kapitan Nadia Lysenko has become far more complex. Colonel Maksym Bondarenko has appealed to his superiors that Nadia is a key member of the squadron’s helicopter brigade, essential to our covert operations. Zoo Sécurité has also interceded on Nadia’s behalf. We can fly Dasha Isakova into Kursk, but there are conditions.”
Whispers and animated gestures rippled around the room.
“However, Vasy and I believe we can meet those conditions using this squadron’s unique resources. I’ll let her explain.”
Vasy projected a photo of their NH90 Caïman, codenamed Sierra, beside the map.
“When Aline and Cecilija brought Sierra back from Kursk, they brought 20 wounded out to receive medical attention, although an NH90 Caïman is only designed for 12 medevac stretchers. This time, we are being asked to repeat the feat with two paramedics and equipment as were used on the trip from Sumy to Poltava.”
There were murmurs and cries of ‘impossible’.
Cecilija stood up and shook her head.
“We only had eighteen patients and had discarded our miniguns by then. I’m not abandoning anyone else in Russia.”
“We’re not doing that,” said Vasy. “Captain Henrika Visser.”
Henrika nodded and spoke, “My crew and I agree with Cecilija. As one of our chiefs, she’s proved an experienced loadmaster. To medevac twenty wounded with paramedics and equipment safely, let’s use the NH90 Caïman and our Black Hawk.”
Everyone agreed although Kalyna raised another condition.
“Command doesn’t want the wrong impression to be made. The emphasis must be medical, nor must any other military unit be involved.”
“Like Special Forces?” asked Ruslan. “Except as wounded, of course.”
“Exactly,” said Vasy. “However, if our vulnerable helicopters are flying into a volatile war zone without assistance, we must supply our own fighter escort this time. Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko, how viable is Ruby Flight?”
Polina whispered to Adriana, and they stood up together.
“Only three of the Gripen flight are combat ready, and Senior Master Sergeant Anhelina Janda will agree four are flight ready.” Anhelina smiled and then nodded.
Polina added, “I believe, as Nadia proved, that a Tiger is a dependable attack aircraft as well… if the majors agree.”
Kalyna and Vasy quietly conferred in a corner.
Then Kalyna said, “We believe you have created a near-perfect plan, which we all can iron out for command to agree on.”
This is Episode 29 of Freedom Flights. This episode continues with events that began in the last episode, the first engagements with F-16s and the consequences.
Since the Kursk is ongoing, I must return to Kursk not least to resolve the MIA character. However, the Witches will be able to use other NATO jets in their arsenal, and there are injuries to address.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 29 – Changed Fortunes
2024
Wednesday, August 7th – Staging ground, Sumy Oblast, Ukraine
Lieutenant Aline Bonheur had mixed feelings as she landed Sierra back in Ukraine. The twenty severely wounded patients needed urgent treatment, more than the staging area paramedics could give immediately. Yet they could do something while the NH90 Caïman was being refuelled for the flight to a fully equipped hospital.
As soon as she touched down, Lieutenant Cecilija Lusk opened the sliding doors to allow the volunteer Hospitallers paramedic team on board to treat everyone they could. Aline jumped out to talk to the area’s female commanding officer, saluting first.
“Morning, Major. I know the paramedics must determine the severity first, but is any facility already expecting these injured soldiers?”
“Poltava Regional Hospital is alerted to your medevac flight. First, these Hospitallers medical battalion paramedics will assess whether anyone can be treated here. Second, they intend to send two paramedics with equipment on your helicopter to continue treatment during the flight.”
“That would be invaluable, although I’ve already abandoned my co-pilot in Kursk so all twenty patients could be evacuated. We could remove our miniguns, but weight could still be an issue.”
Cecilija came over as Aline was discussing this issue with the commander.
“I’ve just said that to the lead paramedic. He’s saying two soldiers can be treated at the field hospital here, and another couple, including Ruslan, would be okay to travel in their ambulance to Poltava. That would resolve the weight problem.” Cecilija hesitated and then continued, “What’s happening to rescue Nadia… our sister pilot?”
“I’m waiting for orders,” said the commander. “There will be vehicles coming back from Kursk, but you are the first. I’m sure your friend will get back. Safe flight to Poltava. At least it’s away from the front.”
With four fewer patients and the miniguns removed, the necessary medical equipment for the remainder of the patients was installed. Two paramedics remained in Sierra to monitor the sixteen most injured soldiers including Albina. She had agreed her Alligator would be safe with the commander in Sumy.
When the NH90 took off, Cecilija sat beside Aline, checking instruments but aware of whose seat she was in.
“When will Nadia get back, or should we go back for her?”
“I know how resourceful Nadia is. She’ll be back.”
One of the paramedics, Osinniy, heard the exchange.
“Some of the soldiers knew her and were grateful for her decision to stay. As one of our colleagues said, ‘We treat every life with dignity. Every person matters to us.’ It must have done to her.”
Aline nodded. “Something like that, Nadia and I learnt a great deal about mutual support from the French special forces we flew into war zones. Nadia is a survivor.”
As Osinniy left to check on a patient, Cecilija asked Aline about their friend.
“Didn’t she get the French call sign ‘Phénix’ from them?” asked Cecilija.
“Yes, while working for a security company created by ex-special forces. They had a reason for giving her that. The Phoenix is reborn from the flames.”
Although they still worried about the injured soldiers, the paramedics and their medical equipment reduced the sense of inadequacy flying out of Russia. Their skill might ensure their patients would reach the hospital in time.
Osinniy rushed up.
“Cecilija, do you know your blood type? There’s a patient losing blood too fast.”
“O-negative, rare, but I’m always encouraged to donate and do willingly.”
Osinniy took her hand and led her down the line of stretchers as she talked.
“O-negative is one of the invaluable types of blood and rarest. Your red blood cells can be transfused into people with any blood type. Like this soldier.”
“Albina!” said Cecilija, looking down at the sniper. “Is it really bad?”
“It was until you offered your blood. She’s A-negative but lost blood over time from wounds up her left side.” Osinniy was attaching tubes for a direct transfer as she talked. “They looked like a machine gun burst from the rear.”
“She’s a sniper who defended our landing site until a drone spotted her. We used a capture-drone to disable it, but the Russians pursued her, shooting as she tried to reach us. A fellow special forces guy lifted her into here.”
“And the enemy?”
Cecilija hesitated before saying, “We took off and… I had to strafe them.”
Osinniy nodded. “If you hadn’t, they would have shot this helicopter down. Then these soldiers would have been left dying in Russia.”
“I’ve worried about these guys since we left, as my basic training in Canada had minimal medical elements. If anyone needed your expertise, I’d have been useless.”
“Except you got them to Sumy safely, so not useless. Now, your blood is saving a life. Call me over when you need to stop for any reason.”
Wednesday, August 7th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Lieutenant Tamila Medved entered the Squadron Command Centre wondering what the Chayka majors needed to see her about. She had tried not to worry about her brother Ruslan, having discovered he was in the Special Forces and then hearing about the Kursk Incursion. He must have been involved.
“Take a seat, Tamila,” said Kalyna. “Please don’t look so upset. Ruslan is back in Ukraine and wants to talk to you shortly. I guess you suspect where he was, but be aware aspects are still secret, so don’t expect him to say everything now.”
“We also think you’ll want to see him,” added Vasy. “You may take a few days to do that whenever you need to go.”
Tamila was about to ask where he was when the Centre’s phone rang. Kalyna answered it and then passed it to Tamila. Kalyna and Vasy left the room.
“Ruslan, is that you?”
The line was relatively clear.
“Yes, Tamila. You guessed where I went… but I can say Kursk but little else, I believe.”
She was afraid to ask, but she had to.
“Were you wounded… badly?”
“Not as badly as others. I’m in hospital… in Poltava. You can visit me, please. I need to see Aleks Górski as well.”
Tamila guessed the worst but again had to ask.
“Nadia’s dead like Aleks dreamt?”
“No. She stayed in Ukraine because there were twenty guys badly wounded. She gave up her seat in Sierra. But she’s safe with Lukyan Petrenko, my Lieutenant… oh, and Lieutenant Mykhail Moroz, Polina’s brother. Tell her he’s safe in one of our best tanks.”
“I’ll reassure Aleks and bring her with me as soon as we can get away. I’ll tell Polina her brother is safe. Stay strong, and I’ll see you soon.”
“Look forward to it.”
Tamila realised she was shaking when the call ended and the Chayka cousins returned.
“Do you know what happened? Kalyna? Vasy? Have you heard about Nadia?
*
Tamila found Aleks in the canteen and Polina with some of the other Tiger pilots beside her. Should she talk to Nadia’s best friend first? But she didn’t get that option.
“Your face doesn’t read well,” said Aleks. “If it’s bad news, we all need to know, please.”
She sat next to her, struggling to find the best words.
“I’ve just talked with my brother Ruslan. He was wounded in Kursk and flown to Poltava-”
“By Nadia? No, she’s dead,” said Aleks. “I know she is.”
Polina put an arm around her as Tamila tried to reassure her.
“Nadia’s still in Kursk and alive. Aline flew twenty wounded out, and Nadia gave up her seat. She’s safe and with Lukyan Petrenko and the other Special Forces.”
There was silence and relief… for a moment.
“So not all the wounded were in your brother’s unit,” said Marusya Dudziarz. “Who were the other guys wounded?”
“I presume from one of the other frontline units in Kursk. Ruslan mentioned your brother Mykhail was there, Polina. A lieutenant in one of the best tanks.”
“Trust my brother to be among the first into Russia in a tank,” said Polina, and then closed her eyes, putting a hand to her face.
“Do we know if there’s a plan to get Nadia out?” asked Aleks. “She’s a pilot, not a soldier.”
“The majors didn’t mention one. But they did say I could see my brother. Maybe we need to find out what’s happening to Nadia.”
**
Monday, August 12th – Poltava Regional Hospital, Poltava Oblast, Ukraine
Ruslan was surprised when his sister Tamila appeared with Aleks and three other Night Witches.
“How did five of you get time off to visit me?” he asked as she gently hugged him.
“Us, kohanyj,” said Albina, driving up behind him in her wheelchair. “Not that I know them all.”
“I know them all, kohana, in time you will.”
“Good to see you both up and outside,” said Cecilija. “Do your doctors know you’re both here?”
“Special privileges for special forces,” said Ruslan. “Which must be why you’re all here.”
“We’re desperate to find Nadia,” said Aleks. “Aline last saw her with Lukyan and Mykhail, but she’s not with Special Forces or with the 80th Air Assault Brigade, according to what we can ascertain. I pray she’s not dead.”
Ruslan shook his head and leant into Albina’s good shoulder.
“We hear nothing in here and wouldn’t know what to suggest… other than fly back in.”
“We’ve all been flying every mission we can,” said Aline. “We needed to earn time off to plan just that, but nobody will authorise a risky mission to rescue one pilot, who some class as MIA… sorry Aleks, I know that doesn’t help.”
“What about approaching more senior officers in Special Forces?” asked Tamila. “You must know somebody, brother.”
“Lukyan was the most senior I knew. It’s a crazy idea, but didn’t Nadia have unusual contacts?”
Aleks and Aline both nodded.
“That isn’t crazy,” said Aline. “I suggest Ruslan and Tamila catch up while the rest of us work this idea through.”
“I’d like to chat with Polina about her brother as he talked about the importance of family to a group of us,” said Albina.
Once the others moved away, Tamila took her brother’s uninjured hand.
“You implied you weren’t as badly injured as others. You’re not in a wheelchair like Albina, but don’t look ready to return to the front. When are they planning to release you?”
“Soon, a few weeks, less, I hope. But if you’re worried that I’m going to go straight back. I’m not… not immediately. But they’ll need me… and Albina.”
She studied his facial expressions.
“You’re a couple, aren’t you? Since when.”
He grinned. “A while. But being here awakened our passion. When we go back to the front, it will be together.”
Albina wheeled herself towards them.
“Polina went to talk to her sisters. Have you discussed our idea with Tamila?”
He shook his head, “It was your idea after being stuck with ‘brothers in arms’. Albina wondered about recuperating at Chayka Field. However, I said you might have no doctor, only paramedics.”
“True, but we are about to recruit an experienced doctor. Plus, having my brother watching my back would be great.”
“And telling your friends what you got up to as a kid.”
The returning Night Witch crews of the four active MiG-29 flights and the five Tiger helicopters crowded into the Zvenigora Restaurant, which had been re-arranged to cater for an unusual squadron debrief. Chief Mechanics and Warrant Officers slipped into the room as their aircraft were settled in for the daily repairs and maintenance.
The two Chayka Majors each took a microphone at the far end of the cavernous restaurant.
“We are holding this squadron debrief in here with you all, as yesterday could have been a nightmare for Ukraine, but you all helped impede what Russia intended,” said Kalyna. “The enemy launched the largest ever concentrated missile and drone attacks against 15 regions over eight hours. They failed to force us to yield. Lives were lost, and buildings were devastated, but the Ukrainian spirit remains unbroken. We will shortly debrief you, but first, the key role played by Ukraine’s F-16s and what it means for us.”
Cheers and shouts of ‘Slava Ukrayini’ erupted and gradually subsided.
“Yesterday saw the first use of Ukraine’s F-16s, defending our motherland,” said Vasy. “It was also a vital day for us as this allows ACW to agree that we Witches can use our Hornets & Gripens. Three weeks ago, Kalyna and I met with Colonel Maksym Bondarenko from ACW and Colonel Alfhild Falkborg of the Swedish Airforce to develop a new Gripen training programme. Our role will now grow, especially if Sweden sends more Gripen Es. However, our Swedish friend can describe what the current situation is.”
Alfhild joined the Chayka cousins amid cheers for one of the squadron’s staunchest advocates. Vasy passed her a microphone.
“This week from Dęblin, we had our 17th Night Witch fly with our Swedish trainers in one of the Gripen F two-seaters protecting the Saab 340 AEW&Cs.” Clapping and cheering made her pause. “Four of you have been able to get enough extra flights in the two Gripen Fs to prove to the trainers you can fly a Gripen E solo. The requirement of 50 hours of Conversion Training, focusing on the new systems and capabilities of the E model compared to the C, included simulator time.”
She paused to allow one of the four pilots, Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko, to ask a question.
“We still need Combat Readiness Training to master the fighter’s combat capabilities and weapons. How long before we are ready to operate in Ukraine?”
Alfhild nodded and then looked at the Majors before replying.
“Normally, 25 flights in about nine weeks. However, aware of the urgency of the war, Major Ottillia Elmersson and Kapten Pernilla Eklund have been integrating some of the combat readiness in the Conversion Training. We believe in three weeks, given your combat experience, you four will be combat ready. I just need to persuade Saab we must have two more Gripen Es.”
She handed the microphone back to Vasy.
“We are down to four flights due to the tragic loss of two of our sister pilots, Sergeant Taisia Kovalchuk and Private Halyna Boyka, and the serious injury to Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk, who has vowed to return. We have enough Gripens in Dęblin to equip two flights, three with two more Es. Kalyna, Alfhild and I will discuss allocating the jets and equipping four flights. Perhaps we can aim for four flights with leaders in Gripen Es and the rest in Cs.”
Vasy nodded to her cousin to continue.
“We will now debrief just the flight leaders and their Chief Mechanics, plus the Senior Tiger officer Kapitan Aleks Górski, in the Squadron Command Centre. If anyone else has anything to add, please join us.”
The Gripen E is among three fighter jets contending to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force fleet of CF-188 Hornets. Saab Photo
*
Canteen, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Ruslan Medved and his sister Tamila were waiting with Aline Bonheur, Cecilija Lusk and Albina Koval for news from Aleks. She had been attempting to contact Zoo Sécurité with help from the squadron commanders.
When Aleks finally appeared with Polina, she appeared less miserable.
“They had news for once. Two guys are arriving today from Poland.” She checked her phone. “Sacha Proulx and Dasha Isakova. One’s some sort of agent, and the other is the doctor we requested.”
“How are they arriving?” asked Ruslan. “And do we know which is the doctor?”
“Nothing useful. Just a cryptic message in Polish,” said Aleks. “From their contact, perhaps.”
Polina was studying a printout of the original message she obtained from Vasy.
“My Polish improved when we were at Dęblin, and my guess is both guys are female to fit in here. Sacha is a French doctor, while Dasha is a Russian agent.”
“Well, we’ll soon know if you’re right,” said Aleks. “Vasy just messaged they’ve arrived, and she’ll bring them here before offering the tour.”
It wasn’t long before Vasy arrived with two athletic women in uniforms, one dark-haired and taller than her long-haired blonde companion.
“Please meet Doctor Sacha Proulx,” Vasy gestured to the brunette, “and 2nd Lieutenant Dasha Isakova. They have been assigned to us by the French Army Light Aviation, although, like Kapitan Nadia Lysenko, they also assist Zoo Sécurité. Accommodation is being arranged. Meanwhile, introduce yourselves, I must return to the strategy meeting in the Squadron Command Centre.”
Aleks introduced herself, mentioning Nadia, before introducing the others to Sacha and Dasha.
Tamila offered to fetch food and drink for them after their journey from Poland.
“How long were you travelling?” asked Cecilija .
“We left France yesterday after we were briefed,” said Dasha. “Our flight to Lublin via Kraków was a few hours longer than the minibus trip here, so thirteen hours. But we did sleep.”
“Unlike you, Aline,” said Ruslan. “She flew herself… the whole way in a helicopter.”
“Not quite,” she replied. “I slept while the NH90 Caïman was changed from French to Ukrainian insignia and being refuelled. Enough sleep for a French pilot.”
They all laughed.
When Sacha enquired about the injuries Albina and Ruslan had sustained, Dasha talked to Aleks, Aline and Cecilija about the disappearance of Nadia.
“Aline, when you piloted the NH90 Caïman out of Kursk, Nadia chose to stay. Correct?”
“Yes, to allow the twenty wounded soldiers to leave safely,” said Aline. “Cecilija and I attempted to change her mind.”
“There had to be an alternative,” added Cecilija. “If only I’d suggested removing the minigun mounts but not the guns. We could have even left one gun. Except Nadia closed the open door.”
Dasha nodded her head.
“She was thinking like a Zoo. The mission before oneself. And there were others there to fight alongside. Yet she’s MIA. Does anyone know how?
“She’s not with the Special Forces she flew in,” replied Aleks.
“Nor with the 80th Air Assault Brigade who joined them,” added Aline. “That was all we could establish, although communication is restricted. We pray she’s still alive.”
Dasha produced a detailed map of the Kursk Oblast with the Sumy frontline and Sudzha marked.
“Where are those units meant to be now?”
“Rylsk,” said Aleks as she studied the map. “Here, but the front keeps moving now the Russians are counterattacking. What are you planning?”
“Twelve days ago, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said your military was setting up a command office in Sudzha. If I can get there with your help, I will locate Nadia wherever she’s gone. I don’t feel she’s MIA.”
“What about dead?” asked Aleks. “She promised to return.”
“Phénix is a survivor,” said Dasha. “She always comes back.”
This is Episode 28 of Freedom Flights. This episode continues with events that began in the last episode.
Since the Kursk incursion now involves two Night Witches and in December is ongoing, this won’t be the last visit to Kursk. However, the first engagements with F-16s will now definitely be in Episode 29, and the Witches will be able to use other NATO jets in their arsenal.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Tuesday, August 6th – Sudzha, Kursk Oblast, Russia
Kapitan Nadia Lysenko trusted her comrades not to betray their numerical predicament while she distracted the Russian conscripts. Eventually, the fifteen special forces returned with Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko, and they could learn what the citizens of Sudzha wanted.
The Russian commander, Lieutenant Abrasha Makarov, agreed to negotiate over strong black tea with Lukyan and Nadia as the special forces scouted Sudzha again with Black Hornets.
“I can reassure you that nobody should come looking for us,” said Abrasha. “Even if anyone heard the shots. It is important that nobody gets killed, especially no civilians. Some are Ukrainian, some are Russian, and others are both. Nobody wants this city destroyed, please.”
“We will use your BMP-3 to enter the city with you as our means to approach your comrades. However, first, your men will remain here under armed guard, including our helicopter mini-gunner.”
“I believe I can trust her not to massacre them, although we know some dishonourable mercenaries who shoot their own comrades in the back. You have a second request?”
Lukyan nodded and then said, “The second is that eight of my men will be with us in the BMP while others remain close by using drones to watch what happens, and our snipers will ensure everything goes smoothly.”
*
Lieutenant Makarov directed the BMP-3 into Sudzha with guns at his back, so he stuck to Lukyan’s plan. Corporal Ruslan Medved drove with his friend Danylo as the gunner. Other than the nine special forces in the vehicle, there were two drone operators and two snipers shadowing them as they drove towards the undermanned barrack house.
Outside the building, a 2nd Lieutenant greeted Abrasha.
“We’re glad you’re back after that shooting. What happened? We need you for a serious card game, Abrasha.”
“Just practice shooting. Who’s inside, Dimitri…. enough for a game? Becos’ first, I have good news you all must hear now.”
“I’ll get the guys. There’s only four, as most went with you, except the two patrolling the neighbourhood.”
While Dimitri was fetching his comrades, six special forces slipped out and took up positions out of sight. A Black Hornet settled on a windowsill and another on a parked pickup.
When the four conscripts emerged with Dimitri, he shouted for Abrasha, who reappeared in his commander’s position in the BMP. As he talked, three special forces slipped into the barrack house.
“When we were sent to Sudzha, we befriended its people. And what did they ask us?”
“To protect them,” said Dimitri. “They prayed the war would never come here.”
“And it won’t,” said another conscript. “We’d ensure their safety.”
“How?” asked Abrasha. “By fighting for them? Or by persuading the enemy to protect them?’
The conscripts talked among themselves. Then Dimitri spoke for them.
“We’ve heard what happens to towns trapped in the middle of this war. They get destroyed, and the people lose everything. Do you agree, sir?”
“I do. For you, my men, and for the people we swore to protect. This is why the Ukrainian special forces are allowing you to surrender, and they promise to protect Sudzha and its people.”
“Will they execute us?” asked yet another conscript. “Isn’t it what they do?”
“No. That’s what immoral officers order. These won’t, as we would be POWs protected under the rules of war.”
“Where do we go to surrender?” asked Dimitri.
“Just turn round, and we must walk inside.”
Dimitri led the conscripts inside, and soon, Abrasha was followed by Lukyan and his forces.
*
The six men left to guard the relaxed prisoners could hear messages from the main incursion force, who were meeting minor resistance. While Cecilija kept a watch from her gun position, she was aware that Aline and Nadia were monitoring and then jamming Russian transmissions, having kept notes of key messages.
Eventually, they all heard Lukyan’s message.
“Thankfully, we have negotiated the bloodless surrender of the last six members of Lieutenant Makarov’s garrison. A truck will bring five more prisoners and further instructions. The rest of us are going to discuss terms with the Eastern Sudzha Garrison in twenty minutes. Sierra Two over.”
The crew had discussed the implications of some messages for Sudzha, so Nadia said, “From Russian messages intercepted, we believe a contingent of ultra-nationalist Russians is heading for southeast Sudzha determined to use the city to stop the invasion. Does this change your plan? Sierra One over.”
“We’ll discuss this development, then call you back. Sierra Two out.”
The crew and Danylo discussed their options until they knew more.
“Five more prisoners takes them up to nineteen,” said Cecilija. “Which means we are ten, counting the driver, so we are outnumbered… but armed. How do Ukrainian special forces usually deal with prisoners, Danylo?”
He hesitated and then said, “Normally, we fight the enemy for longer, and many more are killed. These guys are recruits who were never trained to fight, and that’s unusual. Normally, my sympathy for POWs depends on whether they attempted to oppose the war.”
“Like Larisa Kovalyov, an opponent and now one of our chief mechanics,” said Nadia. “We need reinforcements if Lukyan doesn’t get back soon.”
“How near is the main force?” asked Aline. “They must be close, given they have armoured units, and they set off after us expecting minimal resistance.”
Nadia checked the radar-generated digital map.
“Within a kilometre on the main road, so I better meet them.”
She jumped out and legged it as she heard Cecilija call the senior guard over. With reinforcements, the dilemma was resolved.
A Marder 1A3 came around the bend and slowed when the commander saw her. She realised the machine gun was pointed at her, so raised her arms.
“I’m Kapitan Nadia Lysenko from the Sierra spearhead. Our helicopter is over there.”
The commander noted her Ukrainian flag plus her UAF badge and then told her to clamber onto the Marder. His driver followed her instructions, and they parked beside the truck from Sudzha and just beyond the NH90 Caïman. Six soldiers dismounted, followed by the commander, driver, and gunner.
The commander introduced himself while two Stryker infantry carrier vehicles drove towards the gathering.
“I’m Lieutenant Mykhail Moroz of the 80th Air Assault Brigade. Mission code: Tango. We wondered why the Russian defences were in a shambles. We’ve even had soldiers fleeing towards us. These can’t be all your troops. Where are they?”
“Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko commands the Sierra Spearhead. He negotiated the bloodless surrender of these conscripts from the Southern Sudzha Garrison.” She glanced at her watch. “Their commander is aiding his imminent negotiations with the Eastern Sudzha Garrison. We can delay them if we act now.”
“Let me talk to him. I may have crucial news.”
Nadia led Mykhail into the Sierra as the two M1126 Stryker pulled in alongside the Marder.
“Any news from Lukyan?” said Nadia. ”Lieutenant Moroz needs to talk to him urgently.”
“He’s returning since the advance brigade was due to arrive,” said Aline
Within minutes, the BMP parked behind the NH90 Caïman. Lukyan climbed out, followed by Abrasha between Ruslan and Danylo.
Nadia led them inside the Sierra, where Mykhail was talking to Cecilija and Aline.
“I didn’t realise our flying ladies were from the awesome Night Witches”
“He’s Polina’s brother… you know Lukyan, our brilliant Tiger pilot with the goal-scoring leg,” said Nadia. “Anyway, Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko, meet Lieutenant Mykhail Moroz of the 80th Air Assault Brigade.”
“Mykhail, this is Lieutenant Abrasha Makarov, Commander of the Southern Sudzha Garrison, who all surrendered to us. Nine of my men have occupied their building to monitor troop radio communications in the city.”
“My 2nd Lieutenant, Dimitri, also wants to help avoid citizens dying,” said Abrasha.
“Too late,” said Mykhail. “Drone surveillance has confirmed a contingent of ultra-nationalist Russians is heading here from the southeast determined to make Sudzha the invasion’s graveyard, whatever the cost.”
“You have to stop them, please,” said Abrasha, and then smiled. “I’m stupid, a Russian officer asking Ukrainian officers to attack another Russian force.”
“How can we trust you?” said Nadia. “You fired on us.”
“Only after you fired first. Our shot was only a warning.”
“As were ours. You did surrender very quickly. Unlike real soldiers,” said Nadia, shaking her head.
“What do you really want, Abrasha? Prison or home?” asked Mykhail.
“If I had a choice.” He paused, closing his eyes. “I dreamt of joining the Freedom for Russia Battalion and fighting against a regime oppressing dissenters. But that meant leaving… before mobilisation kicked in.”
“Does anyone share your view?” asked Lukyan.
“Most, although put to the test, a few might run.”
Not all nineteen Russian conscripts were willing to die for Ukraine and a better Russia; five felt POW status had more advantages. The fourteen who stood with their commander had to be divided among the four vehicles, although Lukyan agreed to shadow five, plus Abrasha. All of them knew a false move could see them taken prisoner again…. Or worse.
The 2nd Self-propelled Artillery Battalion from the 116th Separate Mechanized Brigade had also arrived with three AS-90s, along with a few soldiers already guarding three prisoners and willing to guard another five. Their three armoured self-propelled guns were set up to cover the southeast approaches using spotter drones to target the ultra-nationalist Russians
Mykhail took his Marder and two M1126 Stryker vehicles to block the southeast approaches to ensure any survivors, after the artillery barrage, were halted.
The Sierra crew waited while Ruslan drove Lukyan and his remaining special forces to the southern garrison building in Sudzha, followed by the garrison truck. Inside, Lukyan and Abrasha checked on the progress monitoring radio communications in the town.
“Every garrison seems aware some kind of cross-border raid has occurred,” said the corporal in charge. “However, they are unaware of the scale or that we have a foothold in Sudzha.”
“I have also convinced them that this garrison is still in Russian hands,” said Dimitri. “But a word from Lieutenant Makarov would reassure them.”
At a nod from Lukyan, Abrasha went to the radio.
“This is Lieutenant Abrasha Makarov. Apologies for my absence. I’ve been patrolling to the southwest in our BMP and saw no sign of the enemy, although we heard distant artillery fire. I’ll now be patrolling further east. Makarov out.”
He switched off and then turned to Lukyan.
“Should I have said more?”
“Not yet. First, everyone needs to know that along with Kapitan Nadia Lysenko and Lieutenant Mykhail Moroz of the 80th Air Assault Brigade, we have provisionally accepted fourteen of the conscripts under Lieutenant Abrasha Makarov’s command as mercenaries within the Ukrainian Ground Forces. All of them know a false move could see them taken prisoner again…. or worse. I hope there are no objections.”
He paused, but everyone nodded and remained silent.
“Dimitri, these men have observed you and know your beliefs. Do you want to fight for us against Putin’s minions, or do you want to be a POW and go home?”
He glanced around at the Ukrainians and hesitated before deciding.
“I’m with my commander. I share his principles. What next?”
Lukyan looked around the room.
“Time for this garrison to visit their Eastern neighbours. But there’s not enough room in the BMP, so Abrasha and Dimitri travel inside, and two of your guys ride outside. I’ll be inside with nine of my team. The other ten will take the truck with three of your guys. Corporal Ruslan Medved knows what to do next. Let’s go.”
Outside, they rearranged the two vehicles and left in opposite directions.
Ruslan pulled up alongside the Sierra and ordered everyone to board her.
“Tell the crew to prepare for takeoff… with your help if needed, clearing the camouflage. I’ll be back in a few. Wait for me, please.”
He waved and then drove to where Tango Four, the 2nd Self-propelled Artillery Battalion, had parked their support vehicles. He handed the keys to a trustworthy-looking sergeant.
“Present from the Russians via Special Forces. Treat her nicely. And tell the gunners to give the helicopter time to get away to the northeast.”
Grabbing his equipment from the cab, he then sprinted back to the NH90 Caïman and jumped in.
“Glad you could make it, Corporal Medved,” said Nadia. “We’re ready for takeoff. Where to this evening, somewhere exotic?”
“I wish. I’m afraid it’s not yet that. Head due east towards Makhnovka, but try to detect the Russians approaching from the southeast.”
Nadia lifted Sierra off while Aline scanned all around.
“Enemy one kilometre ahead and heading towards Sudzha,” said Aline. “Evade or engage?”
“Evade. Cecilija, transmit our false Russian ID, and then intercept their transmissions. Radio their position to all Tango units,” said Ruslan. “Pilots, keep heading east until out of range of artillery fire. Then head north until you can find a safe landing so my team can support Tango armour.”
“Understood,” said Aline. “We have located a safe landing near Tango armour’s location”
Nadia landed Sierra on the west bank of the river that eventually ran through Sudzha. The special forces jumped out, and all but two moved off towards the distant armoured vehicles. The remaining two soldiers helped Cecilija set up the helicopter’s miniguns and then introduced themselves.
“I’m Albina, and the quiet guy is Demyan. We volunteered to help you guard our best form of transport around here. He may not say much, but he’s a great gunner. I’m just a sniper, so I’ll fetch my weapon of choice.”
She emerged from the rear of the NH90 Caïman with a long rifle in two pieces and dressed in a ghillie suit and carrying night gear.
“Is that a SnipeX Alligator,” asked Nadia. “Some of our Night Witches stopped one of the main smuggling rings trying to obtain them for the enemy.”
“Great work,” said Albina. “I’d hate to think I was going out there and facing a Russian with such a deadly weapon.”
She jumped lightly out of Sierra and walked into the night.
“I’ll be covering you from the trees on the rise,” said Albina on her income. “I should have the range to also take out Russians threatening our guys.”
*
The artillery barrage lit up the night sky. From the frantic Russian orders, Lieutenant Mykhail Moroz knew that they were in disarray but still heading for Sudzha… and towards his concealed armoured units. He had ensured the Marder and two Strykers would ambush the enemy where they would be squeezed between the steep ground and mined hedges. His thirty infantry were positioned to keep the Russians pinned down.
Once they were in range, his Marder gunner fired the 20 mm Rheinmetall MK20 Rh202 autocannon’s armour-piercing rounds at the lead Russian tank, blowing its turret off. The first Stryker opened fire with its .50 calibre M2 Browning machine gun as crew and infantry scurried for cover. The second Stryker pounded the other enemy vehicles with its 40mm MK19 grenade launcher as the Marder continued to disable armour.
However, some Russian infantry scaled the steep ground, attempting to outflank the Tango ambush. The concealed soldiers shot some, while others were taken down by the special forces coming up the road behind them. An unseen sniper took out those who fled east towards the NH90 Caïman.
*
Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko was attempting to convince an intractable commander when the Tango barrage occurred.
“How do you justify that?” the commander asked, as his garrison’s radio clearly picked up Russians being attacked and heading for Sudzha and sanctuary.”
“They’re the ones who will get Sudzha destroyed,” said Lieutenant Abrasha Makarov. “They don’t care about our citizens. Who are we meant to be protecting? Them or ourselves?”
The sound of fighting grew louder as the ultra-Russians ran into the Tango ambush.
“My duty is to my comrades in arms. You’ll have to choose Makarov. I’m no traitor like you.”
Lukyan ordered half of his men to help Makarov while the other half took the BMP to help Tango. He stayed with Makarov.
*
Snipex Alligator- Сергій Воронков
Albina realised some of the Russians had launched a Kamikaze drone to hunt her down. There was no way she could radio for help without alerting the drone.
The drone scoured the ground using the last position where she’d been spotted. It tracked closer.
A second drone moved above her. Taking a shot might be her last act. But the second drone disabled the first, captured it and carried it across to the helicopter.
Albina rose and ran in a zig-zag crouch down the rise. Shots whizzed past her as the pursuing Russians kept firing. A bullet winged her, and she tumbled to the ground, rolling. Her heart was pounding as she crawled to Demyan, who grabbed her and her precious Alligator. He heaved her into the NH90 Caïman, which was lifting into the air as Albina blacked out.
Aline flew low over the trees on the rise, then dropped lower so Cecilija could strafe the Russians, reacting too late to the appearance of a helicopter.
“How close can we land to you, Tango One?” asked Nadia. “Sierra over.”
“We’ve cleared an area where the road divides in a V. Flare marks the far edge. Tango out.”
Three armoured vehicles secured the three roads, and Aline landed where indicated.
“Manned roadblocks also secure the perimeter of the area,” said Mykhail. “The are some armed Russians attempting to regroup, but Lukyan and his Special Forces are gradually eliminating them unless they flee back into Sudzha.”
“How many casualties?” asked Nadia.
Mykhail contacted his officers for their figures.
Five minutes later, he knew.
“18 seriously wounded needing treatment, ten walking wounded, and seven dead. Four of the fatalities were our Russian allies killed when the Eastern Garrison refused to surrender. One has gone AWOL, the 2nd Lieutenant called Dimitri.”
“When are the seriously wounded likely to get treated?” asked Nadia.
“Not until the medical units reach us,” replied Mykhail. “If you can medivac them, they have a better chance.”
Nadia went to talk with her crew sisters in Sierra about the seriously wounded.
“Nineteen with Albina,” said Cecilija. “She’s losing blood. If the armoured vehicles have stretchers, I could cannibalise a medivac bay.”
*
Thirty minutes later, Cecilija had a usable medivac bay and Nadia was persuading Lukyan of their plan.
“It’s a risk, but the front can be crossed,” said Nadia. “Enemy surveillance won’t expect a Ukrainian helicopter flying out of Russia, and we can ensure our side expects us. Are you sure you don’t need us?”
“Totally sure, and many thanks for another exceptional flight here. But I need a favour,” said Lukyan. “Ruslan Medved is seriously wounded and on his way. Save him, please.. for his sister.”
Nadia agreed and turned to her crew sisters.
“Can we take one more patient? We need to consider weight and fuel.”
Cecilija calculated all the parameters but shook her head.
“We can’t ditch the guns as this return flight is more dangerous,” said Nadia.
“What about Albina’s Alligator?” asked Aline.
“It’s too light and too dangerous in enemy hands,” said Nadia, noting how the armoured seats had become part of the medivac bay.
When Ruslan arrived inside the BMP, Nadia noted his build.
“He’s heavy set, and there’s a simple solution,” said Nadia. “I’m taking the next flight out. Probably you guys when you persuade Maksym you’re essential,”
She jumped out and slid the main left-hand door shut, ignoring the protests. She walked towards Mykhail.
This is Episode 27 of Freedom Flights. This episode continues with events that began in the last episode.
The Kursk incursion now directly involves two Night Witches, which I now realise will take multiple episodes. However, the first engagements with F-16s will probably be in Episode 29, although, the Witches will get to use other NATO jets in their arsenal.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 27 – Defensive Relocation
2024
Thursday, August 1st – Superhumans Center, Wynnyky, Lviv Oblast, Ukraine
The therapist led the group from Chayka Field to where Olha Tkachuk was operating a device with her new prosthetic left arm, using its fingers to press keys and move levers.
“In three months, the doctor says I may be able to fly a simulator, and sometime later, I pray a real jet,” said Olha as she embraced her cousin Anhelina. She then knelt to stroke Olha’s husky Quetzal and let her sniff the prosthesis.
“She’s more relaxed now it has your scent all over it,” said Olha. “On our last visit, it must have smelled more artificial, being temporary.”
Her flight leader, Adriana Pavlenko, stood beside her. “The sisters look forward to your return. Will that be in a few months or once you have been assessed on a simulator?”
“We will assess your recovery and flexibility,” replied the therapist. “But it’s probably best if her squadron tests you on the right simulator, as ours is a basic tool for improving dexterity and responses.”
Adriana paused, seeming to deliberate on this new development.
“We are expecting a new Saab simulator any day to prepare us for the day we are asked to fly Gripen Cs again, the new Es, or the two-seater D, as a trainer and a multi-role combat fighter.”
“I’m waiting for that day expectantly,” said Olha. “Every time I flew a Gripen at Dęblin, it felt so natural. Let’s pray my right arm agrees… the two-seater D suits me best.”
“I’m reassured having a co-pilot in case my leg plays up.” Polina laughed and removed the trainer from her prosthesis, then flexed her artificial limb.
“When I first climbed into a familiar copter, my foot almost danced with joy… so to speak.”
“Do you often cover your prosthesis?” asked Olha. “It can’t need protection.”
“For non-combat everyday use, I do for practical reasons and protection,” replied Polina. However, I have other specialized appendages like for flying or my blade for sport, but I switch to this one when relaxing.”
“You will have similar,” said Olha’s therapist. “This is the lower arm attachment with which we are testing your skills, assisting your residual limb’s rehabilitation, and preparing you for the final model. Eventually, you’ll be ready for the definitive version our experts are crafting. It will be fully bionic using electrodes for greater dexterity, allowing you to fly again as proficiently as before.” She turned to Polina. “We can upgrade your prosthesis to improve its adaptability.”
“I’m ready today or when I’m next here… whatever suits my doctor.”
The therapist checked with Polina’s doctor as the friends continued talking.
“I notice another prosthesis on the side,” said Anhelina. “One that echoes your left arm, Olha“
“That one’s easier to eat with and doesn’t worry people. My social hand, you might say.”
**
Sunday, August 4th – Secret Base in Central Ukraine
Nadia Lysenko and Aline Bonheur ran the last pre-flight checks on the NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 prior to their test flight to Dęblin Military Air Base in Poland.
“All loaded to match mission requirements,” said Cecilija Lusk. “Thanks to you guys, data links, communication systems, and remote sensor fusion functionality operating at peak levels as required.”
She had volunteered as their loadmaster/sensor operator when Igor Dubicki had insisted on staying with Aleks Górski at Chayka Field as she was unwell.
Anatol Krakarth contacted them over the NH90’s onboard intercom.
“When the Control Tower gives us clearance to lift off, Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko and I will begin monitoring performance and stability concerns from the initial tests.”
“The Tower will request details such as our radar signature from select monitoring stations en route to Dęblin,” added Lukyan. “The most crucial point will be when we cross the border into Poland.”
“Sierra to Control. Permission to take off, please?” asked Nadia.
When they crossed the border into Poland, Anatol and Lukyan were both smiling.
“No turbulence. Smooth so far,’ said Anatol. “Captains. Speed, please?”
“Averaging 310 kilometres per hour, which equals about 193 miles per hour. Impressive, especially with no turbulence. Is that good enough, gentlemen?”
“If our radar signature has reduced and our jamming works,” replied Lukyan. “More is always better, but too risky… and we’re running out of time.”
The crew smiled at each other.
“Approaching familiar terrain,” said Nadia. “Time to skim some trees.”
“This low?” asked Cecilija, noticing the fast-approaching ground.
“Don’t worry, Nadia and I flew like this when we served together,” said Aline. “I suspect the mission will be at night. Same as we’ll do on our return trip.”
“I totally trust you both… and the tanks out there.”
Ruslan Medved glanced out the window as they sped past the immobile hulk.
“I’m glad someone crippled that tank first.”
“Possibly Nadia in her Tiger when they prowled out here,” said Brajan Rudawski so everyone heard.
She went silent until the Dęblin control tower appeared.
“Dęblin control, this is Sierra requesting clearance to land.”
“Clear to land Sierra. Marshalls will direct you to a VIP slot… if you have our Master Engineer.”
“Affirmative.”
As they hovered near familiar buildings, the voice of Maksym Bondarenko came over the comm.
“Congratulations, Sierra crew and engineers. Your radar signature was deceptive, not at all Ukrainian. See you inside for a short debriefing. Then a traditional Witches meal before your night flight back to your base.”
As he was climbing out, Nadia spoke to Lukyan.
“I need to admit something to you later, perhaps over the meal at Zvenigora;”
“There’s one here in Dęblin?”
“One of the first two founded over a decade ago. See you inside after I’ve helped record the flight data and shut this bird down.”
After a debrief compiling all the outward flight data from the NH90 Caïman’s recorded performance to the radar tracking, the first stage of the tests was declared a resounding success. Anatol and Brajan would remain in Dęblin at the university. However, they would be anxiously awaiting the results of the second stage, the night flight back, after a final meal for the Sierra team.
“Do your students eat here, Anatol?” asked Lukyan. “We missed this restaurant when we came here.”
“The Shevchuk family keep the prices low for students, and they are regulars… especially now there’s the monthly movie night like we enjoyed at the Chayka Field restaurant,” replied Anatol.
Agnieszka, Sabina, and Tomas had arranged tables for the team and their hosts along one side of the restaurant.
Lukyan sat opposite Nadia and near enough to Aline and Cecilija to congratulate the whole crew.
“That was an impressive flight, thanks to you all. I’m reassured to have all three of you on the team.”
“Does that mean you need me for the mission?” asked Cecilija.
“You’re as essential as the pilots,” replied Lukyan. “Slipping into enemy territory unnoticed requires skilled flying and devious manipulation of their scanning. Drones alone can’t confuse them.”
“But Igor-“
“Wouldn’t have been the best choice,” said Lukyan. “I hadn’t considered the best option… another Night Witch. I nearly made the wrong decision.”
“I almost did,” said Nadia. “When you asked me, ‘…can any of your helicopters here match or exceed 300 kilometres per hour?”
“Today, when we flew past the tank, Brajan mentioned I might have destroyed it with my Tiger… which flies at 290 kilometres per hour with its Osiris rotor head mast. However, our Tigers fly at 315 kilometres per hour without the Osiris mast… faster than the Sierra NH90 Caïman.”
Lukyan laughed.
“But you sensibly never considered your Tiger as it couldn’t carry troops, even though without a mast it would exceed my required speed. Nowhere near a wrong decision.”
“I agree,” said Aline. “A modified Blackhawk would probably exceed 300 kilometres per hour, but it only carries 11 seated troops… sorry, Cecilija.”
“Apology accepted, Aline. 20 would be a squeeze… even sitting on laps,” said Cecilija, grinning.
“And hasn’t your Blackhawk been customised for medical evacuation?” asked Nadia.
“Correct,” said Cecilija. “Although, like the NH90, it can be changed as required… given time and equipment.”
Anatol, further down the table, nodded, then turned to Maksym.
“Did any of the items I requested arrive here?”
“Everything I believe. Due to the nature of the mission, nobody unpacked them.”
“As soon as we’ve eaten, I’ll arrange that,” said Anatol. “I’ll need some volunteers, including Cecilija as our loadmaster.”
*
Aviation Engineering Centre, Dęblin Military Air Base, Poland
With the NH90 Caïman moved outside the engineering hangar, Anatol was able to coordinate the removal of most of the surplus cargo used to bring the helicopter to its mission weight. Then, the requested items could be installed.
“Cecilija, that crate should contain two lighter mini guns and door mounts. Were we still sensible in favouring guns over extra fuel tanks, Lukyan?”
“Totally. We’re not going far enough to warrant extra fuel. How far exactly, I haven’t been told due to the confidential destination.”
Once the additional modifications were made, the crew prepared the Sierra for take-off as Lukyan ordered his team to board.
Anatol and Brajan stepped inside the helicopter to say farewell.
“As we’re staying here,” said Anatol, “I ensured there’s enough surplus cargo to balance out our absence. We pray your night flight is as efficient as the journey here.”
“Bon voyage,” said Brajan and then kissed Nadia passionately. “Fly home safely, mon amour.”
“I’ll miss you, moja kochana.”
As Brajan turned to leave, Maksym arrived with Aenoheso Little Hawk.
“I wanted to wish you all a good flight and a victorious mission,” said Maksym.
“I have a private message for Nadia,” said Little Hawk, who stepped inside and whispered, “Aleks says, ‘Come home safely. We have so many more missions to fly together. Don’t leave me, please.”
“Never. We need to celebrate peace together.”
**
Monday, August 5th – Staging ground, Sumy Oblast, Ukraine
The modified NH90 Caïman had reached the staging ground for the incursion into Russia four hours before the briefing for the mission. Lukyan was one of several officers whose teams had specific roles to play, so they were aware of the main intent and objective.
After discovering the overall plan, Lukyan gathered the team in a darkened room.
“At midnight, we leave here in Sierra as the advance party for a swift incursion across the border into Russia’s Kursk Oblast. Drones are creating a path through the enemy surveillance network, which Cecilija will use Sierra’s sensors to extend for the mechanized and infantry units to follow. You will now see drone night footage of that path, so our pilots know the route to take.”
Aline and Nadia watched the recordings until they had memorised and noted on a detailed digital map the key landmarks along the course the Sierra must fly. Cecilija logged any enemy surveillance the drones had detected.
“Do we know how heavily defended the nearest town is to our planned route?” asked Aline.
“All observations indicate Sudzha city is lightly defended,” said Lukyan. “The enemy is behaving as if our build-up of forces here is a defensive redeployment to reinforce this sector of the front. However, as this incursion’s spearhead, we need to be prepared to face robust resistance, especially since we are expected to scout ahead of the main force. That means flying deeper into Kursk to establish further footholds.”
He paused, guessing there might be questions.”
“Normally, we deliver the special forces and leave,” said Aline.
“Returning later to extract them,” added Nadia. “So, guess we’re staying for the duration.”
“Not quite. You’ll need to stay as long as getting us behind the enemy effectively takes,” replied Lukyan. “Before we leave, everyone check your weapons and equipment. Cecilija, check Sierra’s miniguns before you do your pre-takeoff electro-optical sensor test.”
After the special forces had done their checks, they relaxed for the final hour. Although the crew were used to chilling before a mission, this was different for them. It would be a flight into the unknown for Cecilija, although both Nadia and Aline had flown troops into enemy territory multiple times. They were reassuring her when Lukyan realised that he should help and came over.
“Don’t worry, Cecilija. This is normal for the rest of us. We’ll be there to fend off the enemy until the other units reach our position. You’ll only be flying ahead when we’ve scanned the next area.”
“And I have faith in my sisters’ abilities. They can fly as superbly at night as by day.”
“Which is great. We came back from Dęblin as fast as our outward flight. I believe we’ll match those 310 kilometres per hour average tonight.”
*
Crossing the front at speed, they could see muzzle flashes as fighting continued below them, even at night. Fortunately, nothing was aimed at Sierra since the drones had driven a wedge through the Russian’s electronic barriers. In the distance, they could see intermittent explosions from long-range artillery shells and drone strikes. But nothing that warned the enemy a major incursion was imminent.
As Nadia and Aline followed the memorised path, occasionally looking at the digital map, Cecilija used her range of sensor jammers to carve a wider route for the ground assault to follow. Although their radar detected infrequent enemy aircraft, their own increased situational awareness and low radar signature kept them undetected.
A short distance from Sudzha, Cecilija scanned the area for enemy troops. Despite the sporadic explosions, probably where drones had targeted military installations, no troops were detected. Therefore, Nadia landed on the edge of a grass field with Aline’s assistance. The special forces jumped from the NH90 Caïman and began to secure the immediate area. Three of them launched small Black Hornet reconnaissance drones to scout towards the city. Another trio were sent to the south-west, back along their route from the front.
Almost silent, unlike other UAVs, these drones allowed the team to find the nearest defenders, who were in a house on the edge of Sudzha.
“They’re unaware of our arrival,” said Lukyan. “They look like conscripts.”
“Most of them are still asleep, oblivious to the attacks,” said Ruslan Medved. “Their officers must feel the war will never come here.”
“Not for much longer,” replied Lukyan, and then approached the other three drone operators. “Any hostiles within UAV range?”
“Permission to scout further,” asked Danylo Vasylyk. “There’s nobody within 1.5 kilometres we can see in the river mist with the camera, although it should clear as dawn approaches.”
“Move slowly to the far field boundary, then lie low before launching again nearer dawn.”
**
Tuesday, August 6th – Sudzha, Kursk Oblast, Russia
Sunrise bathed the field in golden light, and birdsong filled the air. The sounds of war were hardly perceptible. The scouts had located every Russian detachment using their tiny aerial spies.
The Sierra crew had camouflaged the helicopter with netting and foliage, which could be removed quickly in an emergency. It wasn’t long before the first Russian aircraft flew over their position. But it didn’t detect the NH90 Caïman or the encamped troops in their dugouts and continued towards the front, no doubt alerted by the main incursion.
However, the special forces soon engaged the enemy to the southwest, although while some fled, the rest threw down their weapons and surrendered. The five prisoners were brought back to the main encampment, where Lukyan tried to discover what they knew about other Russian units in the area.
With the additional intel, he made a decision.
“I’m splitting the team. Five of you, selected by Sergeant Danylo Vasylyk, will remain here to help protect the NH90 Caïman and guard the prisoners. I will take the main force and engage more of the enemy in the southwest.”
“If anyone attempts to attack from Sudzha,” said Danylo, “I’ll keep you informed.”
Two hours passed before a BMP-3 and seven Russian infantry soldiers emerged from Sudzha on the road along the far side of the field.
Danylo reported to Lukyan, who said his force was returning alongside the road and would ambush the force if the enemy didn’t spot the Sierra.
Unfortunately, one of the prisoners attempted to warn the approaching Russians. One guard knocked him out, but the BMP broke through the hedge between the two forces.
Danylo instructed his men, including Cecilija, to hold fire until the enemy was nearer to the centre of the field.
“Warning shots,” said the sergeant as the BMP reached the middle of the field. “Cecilija, try disabling the BMP by hitting the tracks.”
Her shots made the BMP stop. The troops kept the enemy pinned down, although the odd shot was returned. The BMP fired its cannon but short of the dugouts.
“They’re wary of hitting their men,” said Danylo. “Time for a gamble.” He raised his voice. “Kapitan Lysenko prepare to launch an anti-tank missile.”
The bluff led to a unanimous surrender as Russians scrambled around the vehicle, throwing weapons on the ground. The three BMP crew exited swiftly, anxious to survive the expected explosion.
The commander of the infantry combat vehicle staggered forward.
“When we realised you had that helicopter, I knew we were outnumbered,” he explained in Ukrainian. “Who is your senior officer, please?”
Danylo hesitated even though Lukyan had left him in charge. He glanced back to the Sierra, where Aline and Nadia were watching with Cecilija. Without missiles, they were outnumbered by Russians 15:8.
“I’m in charge of these men, but Kapitan Nadia Lysenko is the senior officer. What should I tell her?”
“It’s about Sudzha and the people.”
Nadia had joined them and heard the exchange.
“What do they need?” asked Nadia. “Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko has the final decision. Despite our respective ranks, he’s this mission’s senior officer.”
Could she play for time? When the fifteen other special forces returned, they would outnumber the Russians 23:15. How long before the Russians realised they still held the advantage?
**
Slava Ukrayini
FCA 2,991 words
Black Hornet Drone: Ukraine’s Secret Norwegian Weapon:
This is Episode 26 of Freedom Flights. This episode concludes events in early July and sets up events in August that precipitate occurrences throughout September.
Although the Kursk incursion doesn’t directly involve the Night Witches, I am unable to ignore it and so this episode’s actions lead into Episode 27, which includes Kursk as well as the first engagements with F-16s. However, the Witches might get to use other NATO jets in their arsenal.
Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons like F-16s continue to reach the frontlines and in time to change their fortunes.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 26 – Deceptive Intuition
2024
Tuesday, July 16th – Squadron Command Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Nadia Lysenko and Aleks Górski discussed their possible role before entering the Squadron Command Centre for the 0600 meeting with the Special Forces team.
“They need volunteers to fly a helicopter with Special Forces troops somewhere covert,” said Nadia. “Perun from Sikorsky Brigade suggested we had the right craft for such an operation.”
“Anatol is here to help Janina Patriksson and her team modify the helicopter,” said Aleks. ”Are you ready to join a crazy crew?”
“Probably when we learn more.”
They arrived outside the Command Centre as Ruslan Medved and his comrades went in, so they joined them.
Lieutenant Petrenko was sitting beside Maksym Bondarenko and the Chayka majors. Maksym opened the briefing.
“Last night, we were unable to discuss why Special Forces needed to approach the 2022 Night Witches Squadron. I’ll let Lieutenant Lukyan Petrenko explain.”
The dark-haired sturdy officer stood and surveyed the select group.
“Everything you hear here is highly classified as is everything connected to this operation. I have been tasked by my superiors within Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces with finding the best helicopter pilot to fly a crack unit behind enemy lines on a secret mission.”
“What are the criteria?” asked Perun sitting aloof from the others.
“It was suggested that someone in your Sikorsky Brigade must have the expertise to sneak in low and fast flying a suitable helicopter. Yet, you say this squadron has more modern craft and a pilot experienced at flying special forces behind enemy lines.”
Lukyan looked at Nadia.
“Kapitan Nadia Lysenko, please tell me about your military experience before joining the Night Witches?”
Nadia stood and saluted.
“Before I joined the Night Witches and became Ukrainian, sir, I served in the French Air and Space Force. I flew with the 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment, primarily attached to the 13th Battalion Chasseurs Alpins and saw action low-level flying a Eurocopter Cougar to get the troops in and out, sometimes flying a Eurocopter Tiger to harass and defend, like Afghanistan in 2011. Also, I flew missions in the 2nd Ivorian Civil War in 2011. Seven years later in northern Mali, I flew for the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment as my previous commander said I was ‘adept at surprising the enemy by coming in very fast and low’… a reputation I aimed to keep.”
“Impressive and no doubt exactly the pilot we need. However, can any of your helicopters here match or exceed 300 km/h?”
He grinned mischievously.
“Not in our current inventory, sir,” said Nadia. “But in the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment, I flew NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters… abbreviated to TTH. The 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment took delivery of 18 in 2023, so if I could persuade either of my former commanders to lease us one, an NH90 has the speed and stealth capabilities for a covert mission into enemy territory.”
Lukyan smiled and nodded towards Maksym.
“It seems your Kapitan Lysenko knows our minds. Let me introduce everyone to Kapitan Lysenko’s former comrade, Lieutenant Aline Bonheur.” He gestured to a lithe redhead who emerged from a side door.
Nadia and Aline embraced, kissing each other twice on the cheek and exchanging a flurry of French.
Lukyan coughed politely, and the two French pilots snapped to attention.
“Apologies Lieutenant Petrenko, it’s been four months since we served together in the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment,” said Aline. “As agreed between Kyiv and Paris, I flew one NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 to a secure location in Poland where its French roundels were changed to Ukrainian roundels and trident insignia and your night camouflage were added. The NH90 is here in a ground-floor hangar bay.”
There were surprised murmurs from everyone
NH90 TTH Caïman transport helicopter of the French ALAT (Light Aviation of the Army): (Photo Stéphane GIMARD)
“Excellent. This Caïman is the French Army designation for the NH90 TTH Standard 2 variant for special ops,” said Lukyan. “As Nadia correctly observed the NH90 will match or exceed 300 km/h… with any modifications engineers can make. It also has stealth features like the infrared suppression system of exhaust gases for decreased sensory visibility against heat-seeking missiles.
“Also,” added Aline, “According to Airbus Helicopters, the NH90 possesses the lowest radar signature in its class, principally due to its diamond-shaped composite fuselage.”
Master Engineer Anatol Krakarth and Chief Warrant Officer Janina Patriksson studied schematics on one of the room’s screens.
“These NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 diagrams show a few areas where modifications could be made,” said Janina. “But I’m unsure whether we have all the right material here.”
“We probably do at Dęblin, but the University might not be such a secure location to work in unnoticed,” added Anatol.
Lukyan nodded. “That is why we came here to prepare, while the main incursion force gathers as if ready to reinforce front-line positions. However, I’m not a party yet as to where or when the incursion occurs. For now, we’ll be training while the NH90 Caïman is being modified. Any questions?”
Ruslan’s friend Danylo raised his hand.
“Where are we training? Is there a suitable area here?”
Kalyna whispered to Lukyan and he nodded.
“An all-female security unit patrols this base. Your mission is to enter at the northwest end and reach the hangar at the northeast end. Enter and identify the hostage before he or she is executed… and without all being captured or killed.”
“Should be easy,” said Danylo.
“Not when GROM, the Polish Special Forces, trained our security unit,” replied Nadia. “And some are K9 handlers.”
“This will be a night mission,” said Lukyan. “Commencing any time tonight after 2100. Both sides will use non-lethal Simunition which Chayka will supply. As usual wear body armor and headgear. I advise caution when engaging with K9s though as they are highly trained. However, if confronted by drones, shoot to disable them. If there are no questions, you are dismissed. Debrief at 0800.”
Kalyna stood and addressed the special forces.
“If you wait here, First Lieutenant Andżelika Sówka of the Night Owls will take you to our armoury to equip you with all the Simunition supplies you’ll need tonight. Take time to familiarize yourself with the equipment. Be aware that the base is now on lockdown. Janina, the floor is yours. ”
Janina waved the two pilots over to where she and Anatol studied the schematics.
“We’ve identified where we might commence testing for modifications. Aline, I’ll call the rest of our engineering team, and you can take us to your NH90.”
After four hours of analyzing the modifications feasible on the NH90 Caïman, the engineering team started implementing what seemed achievable, especially when Anatol could acquire crucial equipment and materials from Dęblin.
“I’ve been worrying for an hour or more about one key oversight,” said Nadia to Aline when they slipped down to the Zvenigora Restaurant for an early evening meal.
“Which you failed to mention earlier to everyone. Why?” asked her friend.
“Because I wanted to talk to you first… alone. Do you know anything about the terms under which we’re using this helicopter? Is it still a French craft or Ukrainian? Are we meant to return it relatively unscathed? Most importantly, will our ‘improvements’ be acceptable to the ultimate owners?”
“I guess it’s still the property of the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment or French Army Light Aviation. I hope ‘our improvements’ will be appreciated. However, my commander’s parting words were ‘Don’t let any sensitive technologies fall into enemy hands or’… well you can guess what the Lieutenant colonel said.”
“What would that be, cherie?” asked a flirtatious journalist. “I’m this squadron’s friend, aren’t I Nadia? Your friend looks to have sensitive armes d’amour.”
“Moi? I’m as lithe as a jungle cat and my claws are too sharp for you.”
“Meow. Your claws or the armaments on the NH90 you landed masterfully this morning. Tell me more about this beauty. Will you let Nadia fly her?”
At that moment, Andżelika and Estera Sówka arrived and hurriedly escorted Aaron Garcia out of the restaurant protesting his innocence so all the customers heard.
“Let’s follow,” said Nadia. “This should be interesting if I know what they’re up to.”
She paid for their meal and then they followed.
Estera turned and grinned as she spoke.
“Do you want to join this game and add some spice? You’d be perfect.”
“What’s this all about?” asked Aaron, voice wavering. “I was only flirting. It was harmless.”
“You’ll see when we’ve tied you up,” said Andżelika and chuckled.
Surprised by Aaron’s sudden removal from the restaurant by her fellow Night Owls, Anhelina Tkachuk wondered if the night exercise had started. Except it was still 19.45.
“Don’t worry, you’ve got another hour,” helicopter pilot Polina Moroz said. “Plenty of time to finalise tomorrow’s arrangements to see your cousin Olha at Superhumans.”
“They’re expecting all four of us,” added Olha’s flight leader, Adriana Pavlenko. “Including Estera since she agreed to drive the old Toyota truck with the donations for the centre.”
“Five if I’m allowed to bring Quetzal?”
“Of course. She’s a service dog… who will flatten a special forces guy tonight.”
They all cheered for Anhelina’s red & white Siberian Husky.
*
Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
The special forces unit crouched off the road into the airbase ten minutes before the exercise commenced.
“What was the final Night Owls count? Any change from your tally, Ruslan?” asked Lukyan. “Remember from here on use call signs.”
“Understood Panther. No change from 12 GROM trained with four K9s.”
“OK, Lynx. Same numbers now our reinforcements were sneaked in. But they’re on home ground. Spare the Simunition as we’ve shared it out. Use unarmed combat rather than weapons. Infiltrate in fours along the four agreed routes. Slava Ukrayini.”
*
Kalyna and Vasy studied the monitors in the Saab MSHORAD as Aslög used the hidden Giraffe AMB radar to sweep the northwest end of the base, assisted by drones designed to detect armed humans.
“Strange there are now sixteen intruders. Unfortunately, we’re only observers. However, our eighteen Owls will handle them, especially with five K9s, ensuring all approaches are covered,” said Kalyna.
“Our task,” said Vasy, “Is to ensure the real enemy doesn’t use the exercise as cover for a sneak attack. At least Sable Flight is patrolling around Lusk to protect them and us, while Gold Flight is covering Lviv’s northern flank. Everyone else is on standby. Tamila Medved volunteered to run the Command Centre tonight until I return.”
*
Lukyan looked at his watch, 2100. He directed Puma’s four on the far side of the road to infiltrate along the southern fence line.
Then he launched a spotter drone towards the main buildings hoping to detect defenders protecting the concealed hangars. There was no movement, only a large black vehicle with ground-to-air missiles mounted ready for launch.
“Hopefully for the enemy not us,’ he whispered to his team before they moved forward a few metres in a crouch.
Silence. A solitary bird call which he struggled to identify until another answered.
“Night Owls. They’ve spotted us. But where are they?”
Suddenly a burst of gunfire shattered the calm. But the team couldn’t see anything with their night equipment.
“The shots were towards the southern fence,” said Leopard. “Will Puma cope?’
*
Using the southern fence line, the Puma team made progress until gunfire forced them to crawl into cover searching for the combatants.
“Has one of our teams found the first line of defense?” asked Cheetah. “Or do we sneak past and make for the objective.”
“Mission first,” said Puma. “Anyway, we don’t have a team in the centre. Only Panther by the buildings.”
“This must be a trap,” said Cougar. “We’re wise to ignore it.”
As they continued they heard a flight of jets take off heading towards Kyiv.
The sound muffled the whispering engine of a drone overhead observing them.
*
Andżelika and Estera Sówka chuckled as their two drones tracked the groups that hadn’t walked into the sound effect trap. Alicja Dubicka lowered the tape machine’s volume gradually and switched it off.
The Night Owls split into two groups of three plus a K9 unit as a less noticeable tracker while they followed the teams.
*
All three of the Panther team heard the drone at once. Jaguar got the nod to disable it
“We’ve got to be faster,” said Panther. “A real enemy would’ve killed us. I suspect the Owls have surrounded us. Our first objective is to check if that missile launcher is neutral or hostile.”
Once they had surrounded the launcher, Kalyna stepped out.
“Welcome to Chayka Field’s main ground defence, Saab’s MSHORAD. We’re just observing your exercise while watching for the real enemy. Rather than give your opponents an advantage, Lieutenant, we’ll save the tour for tomorrow.”
Aneta Filipek and her Owl colleague, recruited at Dęblin, waited in a hidden trench for a Sówka team to appear behind the approaching intruders.
A shot winged the rear figure and his three colleagues dived for the bushes hiding the trench.
But Aneta and her colleague had perfect shots lined up, so they ordered the men to surrender as a dog growled behind the trio.
“Taika, ground,” said his handler Aldona Jagoda.
“Guess you Polish ladies outwitted us,” said Panther. “But at what cost? Half your owls to capture just a few of ours. Now you have to guard us.”
“Aneta and Aldona. Lock them up in the cellar and then join us,” said Estera.
The Panther team were escorted into the trench built under part of the main terminal. They were led through a concealed door into a small room with two beds, a stove and a kettle. At the back was a cage in which the trio were locked with water and rye bread.
“There’s a bunk bed and we’ll return before the debrief. Escape is futile with concrete all around you,” said Aneta.
Taika barked a warning.
*
Zyta Sadowska and another Owl recruit waited in a trench under an abandoned armoured car. A ladder led up to makeshift bunks. A machine gun was planned to increase the position’s strength.
Zyta was looking out of the gunport when she spied a drone scanning ahead of approaching hostiles. She was tempted to disable it, but that would give their position away.
The lead gestured at the AC and his team of four stealthily moved around the vehicle.
One fired into the trench and Zyta heard her comrade scream. Her attacker shouted, “Inside”.
She slammed the AC hatch closed and bolted the rear doors. Then as she was about to shoot the drone, one of the squadron’s capture drones neutralized it and it fell groundward. Before it hit the earth, Mariyka Shevchuk caught it in a large butterfly net.
“First successful use of our ground-launched capture device without damaging the target. Our special forces visitors should be pleased to get this back intact plus some Chayka capture drones.”
Andżelika was watching the feed from their spotter drone which none of the escaping quartet had noted.
“They’re heading across the runway to the control tower where I hope Estera’s group are waiting to spring the next trap.”
*
Confronted by the woodland behind the terminal, Ruslan and the Lynx team had reached the same conclusion as Danylo and the Ocelot team.
“If they hide jets in here, Owls are going to be tough to find before they wing us,” said Ruslan. ”Lynx team will take the northern perimeter while Ocelot skirts the buildings thus evading the trees.”
Everyone agreed to regroup at the end of the woodland before the final approach to the hangar.
*
There was almost no light in the hangar, a single bulb where the three hostages were tied in chairs fastened to a central girder.
The rest of the space was dark except where shafts of moonlight revealed skeletons of ancient planes, covered with a shroud of cobwebs.
Aaron glanced into the shadows where he feared the guards were lurking and listening to his questions. Why didn’t Nadia or Aline know anything?
He leaned closer so the guards couldn’t hear.
“Is it something about this NH90 Caïman? I’ve seen one before when the Spanish Army took delivery of its HT-29 Caimáns in December 2014. Back then, I did a lot of research to write a complimentary in-depth review. They were the NH90 Gslot PA TTH variant, an earlier model than yours.”
“Did you notice any differences worth mentioning in your paper?” asked Nadia. “Remind me of your magazines, please Aaron?”
“Mainly ‘Vuelo del Águila’ but a few others feel the coverage helps. Variations on helicopters always interest enthusiasts… like your craft seems to have larger fuel tanks and different gun mounts. Without you saying more Aline… or cherie Nadia, it’s not much of a story.”
Neither pilot responded so Aaron was left dreaming up another ploy.
*
Lieutenant Petrenko was surprised to be released from the cellar by Major Kalyna Chayka and escorted to the Squadron Command Centre where Major Vasy Chayka was waiting with new orders.
“Your superiors within Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces have requested you and your men return to your base of operations with the NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 piloted by Lieutenant Bonheur and Kapitan Lysenko.”
“What will happen to the modifications which were incomplete last night? We were due a delivery of crucial equipment and materials from Dęblin.”
Vasy and Kalyna discussed the issue and Vasy gave their conclusion.
“Identify the key personnel you need to complete the modifications and your assignment. Then your most crucial will fly in your NH90 and when the delivery arrives from Dęblin the rest can follow by the most efficient means.”
Lukyan nodded, accepting the orders but he had a final question.
“Why the sudden change of plans?”
“It was your superiors’ decision. Please ask them.”
*
Wednesday, July 17th – Helicopter Hangar Bay, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Fifteen special forces troops and two pilots stood beside the NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2 at 0600 when Lukyan Petrenko and Kalyna Chayka entered the Hangar Bay. Everyone saluted, and then Lukyan addressed them.
“It was unfortunate last night‘s exercise was called off, but this means the real action will be soon. Although we are leaving Chayka Field, some of their engineers are following shortly with the means to make our NH90 faster and stealthier. Major Chayka wishes to say a few words.”
Kalyna saluted Lukyan and then spoke.
“We are glad to be helping you first, by lending you our best helicopter pilot, Kapitan Nadia Lysenko, whom I know will do everything to ensure your safe return. Second, we are sending our best engineers with Dęblin’s Anatol Krakarth to help make your NH90 so stealthy and swift the enemy won’t see you coming. Whatever your mission is we at Chayka Field all wish you success. Teach our enemies a deadly lesson they won’t forget and may your actions hasten the peace we strive for.
She paused then shouted, “Slava Ukraini”
Everyone cried out, “Heroiam slava!.”
*
Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Anhelina Tkachuk never missed her morning exercise routine with Quetzal. Her red & white Siberian Husky thrived on the daily sessions and today they faced a three-hour road trip to the Superhumans Center in Wynnyky near Lviv.
She had a sleepless night worrying about seeing her cousin Olha after her amputated left arm had been replaced with a prosthesis. The noise from a helicopter leaving the base around 0630 had triggered her fear of Olha ever flying again.
She slumped on the ground and Quetzal leaned her head on Anhelina’s chest.
Siberian Husky: Image Credit: Aleksandr Abrosimov, Shutterstock
“Are you okay, Anhelina? At least Quetzal is guarding you.”
From the curved prosthetic foot, she knew Polina Moroz had been running.
“I took a break after my workout. Are the others waiting?”
“Olha’s flight leader Adriana went to help Estera refuel the old Toyota truck we all loaded with the donations for Superhumans”
The sound of a vehicle approaching made them look towards the entrance. The Polish truck drew closer and Polina waved, recognizing the two helicopter instructors from Dęblin, Brajan Rudawski and Igor Dubicki.
“I guess you want Anatol. He’s in the Blackhawk hangar, the one with open doors.”
“Correct. We’ve brought the equipment and materials he wanted,” said Igor. “If Aleks is around, can you tell her I’m here, please?”
“We’re leaving for Lviv shortly, but we’ll pass on a message.”
Anhelina, Quetzal and Polina cut through the terminal to reach the Toyota and met Kalyna.
“The Dęblin truck has arrived so we told the guys where Anatol was,” said Polina. “Igor wants to see Aleks, but we’re leaving for Superhumans—”
“To see Olha Tkachuk. Wish her love and strength from all of us. We miss her and want her back in full health. Travel safely, sisters.” Kalyna paused and then added, ”I’ll ensure Aleks sees Igor. She hasn’t taken Nadia’s departure at all well.”
At the rear of the terminal, Polina, Anhelina and Quetzal climbed into the Toyota where Estera and Adriana were estimating how long the journey took.
They drove around to the front of the terminal. The Blackhawk was outside being loaded with the delivery from Dęblin by the engineers and crew. They waved to everyone before leaving the base and heading for the H17 southwards.
Having found Aleks sitting alone and brooding in Alpha Tiger, Kalyna told her that Igor needed her where the Blackhawk was being loaded. She led her there hoping Igor could lift Alek’s mood. She let the couple talk while she went to find the helicopter’s crew.
They were discussing which passengers to take. Kalyna handed the flight instructions from Special Forces to the pilots Captain Henrika Visser and Lieutenant Beitris Berengar.
“Is all that equipment restricting your passengers to less than must go, Henrika?”
“Yes. We’re down to six, but Anatol needs Janina, Mariyka and her three flight engineers, plus the two instructors from Dęblin. We must drop two of those and can’t agree on who is dispensable.”
Looking around the gathered group, Kalyna made a risky decision.
“ Are your two gunners needed? Isn’t anyone else able to cover that role?”
Cecilija Lusk whispered to her colleague who nodded.
“We could be replaced by some here,” said Cecilija adding, “ Aren’t engineers more crucial to this mission?”
Kalyna nodded and Henrika said, “The engineers loaded correctly and I’m sure two or more of them can fire these guns.”
Brajan stepped forward. “Igor and I instructed our helicopter cadets on various armaments with the assistance of weapons officers.”
“If you can persuade your colleague to leave his friend,” said Henrika, “we would be ready to fly.”
Writing Wings 