Freedom Flights Episode 18 Steadfast Phoenix – Part 3

March 29, 2024 by Roland Clarke

This is Part 3 of Freedom Flights Episode 18 Steadfast Phoenix, which I eventually posted in three parts on consecutive days. The link for Part 1 is at https://rolandclarke.com/2024/03/27/freedom-flights-episode-18-steadfast-phoenix/, Part 2 at https://rolandclarke.com/2024/03/28/freedom-flights-episode-18-steadfast-phoenix-part-2/, and all the previous episodes of Freedom Flights can be found at https://rolandclarke.com/freedom-flights/.

Although I have a few thoughts about April’s episode, what I write and whether I do depend on what happens in the war and on your comments. For instance, am I posting too often? Should I spend more time writing post-1944/pre-2022 episodes? What film should the Zvenigora Restaurant show next? Has anyone realized where Zoo Sécurité first appeared?

Freedom Flights Episode 18. Steadfast Phoenix

Part 3

2024

Tuesday, March 12^th – Białowieża Forest, Podlaskie Voivodeship, Poland

As the late afternoon sun began to drop towards the treetops, Nadia and Aleks began their final sweep in the Eurocopter Tiger at a safe distance from the hostile Belarussian border security.

The Tiger’s specialist equipment allowed them to surveil more territory in the area where the suspicious convoy had been spotted. Yet, their five days overflying a large area along the border had yielded nothing, despite rumours that a run was imminent.

“How reliable are your sources?” asked Aleks.

“As accurate as they were on February 28^th. But we haven’t been able to watch 24/7. That’s where all the sophisticated stealth and surveillance features fail.”

“But not today. Isn’t that a convoy of four vehicles the Tiger’s sensors have detected? Locked on and tracking,” said Aleks, as the helicopter’s mast-mounted Osiris system continued monitoring the targets.

As she followed, flying at a distance, Nadia used her helmet-mounted display to view all the flight data.

“Their behavior is suspicious. They came out of the forest from Belarus. It’s almost evening, making ground pursuit in the dark harder. Switch to night-vision.”

The Tiger had a nose-mounted forward-looking infrared sensor so Nadia could follow the convoy wherever they were going. Meanwhile, Aleks could monitor the vehicles and transmit every detail back to their colleagues at Dęblin, who would liaise with all the relevant Polish authorities, including the Special Troops Command.

“They aren’t aware of their aerial tail,” said Nadia. “Let’s pray they lead us to a smuggling hub.”

For over two hours they tailed the convoy, hoping they weren’t about to exceed the Tiger’s 800-kilometre range. Fortunately, the route was south-west towards Dęblin.

On the outskirts of Siedlce, the vehicles turned into a run-down factory and drove into a warehouse. The metal doors slid shut.

Hovering where distance and night noises would mask the sound of the helicopter’s rotors, Nadia watched and waited, while Aleks sent the latest data and the location of the warehouse to the Special Troops Command.

“From here on, Nadia, this becomes a Polish operation. Sorry, we can only observe the GROM special forces unit close out our mission.”

“Fortunately, I’ve seen a few such units in action… but these smugglers won’t have. Our Polish colleagues are prepared for more than just hardened criminals. Aren’t GROM considered to be the most elite unit in the Polish Armed Forces? Isn’t this overkill?”

Aleks chuckled. “No more than using an attack helicopter for surveillance.” She paused to let Nadia laugh. “Although, we were close to a belligerent and unpredictable neighbour, a few hours ago.”

Both went silent as three four-person night-camouflaged teams approached the warehouse from different directions. Their entry was swift and silent. Within a few minutes, the doors slid open, and nine shaking smugglers were led out and towards a Humvee.

A voice in Ukrainian came over the Tiger’s comm system.

“GROM unit reporting. Thanks for the training exercise. Those smugglers will talk. You will hear from someone. Safe flight home to Dęblin.”

Aleks thanked them in Polish, just before she was given the primary flight controls by Nadia.

“After five days, you’ve almost adapted from the older copters to flying the Tiger. But hold off the full loops for now.”

“Under your expert guidance, that might be soon, Nadia.”

https://inspirelearningtsh.co.uk/blog-post/a-phoenix-rising-from-the-ashes/

Thursday, March 14^th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

News of the monthly movie night had spread in Dęblin, so the rearranged restaurant was already filling up 80 minutes before the screening. Even a film in English didn’t deter patrons, although most of the Witches and many of the University cadets understood the language well enough to enjoy a film.

However, Nadia was more concerned about French President Emmanuel Macron reiterating his position on French television that sending Western troops into Ukraine shouldn’t be ruled out.

She told her inquiring friends, he had said, ‘Today’s situation doesn’t require it, but all these options are possible.’

“I agree though, if the West shows any signs of weakness to Russia, Putin will believe Ukraine is being abandoned. Yet, Macron is the one some are calling a ‘warmonger’ who could cause World War III, although he’s rather sounding the alarm bell.”

The other Witches nodded.

“If the aid from the West dries up,” said Anzhela, “the next few months will be a bloody struggle. And even if the arms flow continues, the illegal diversion your team is trying to stop, Nadia, could make that a trickle to us.”

“With GROM’s help, we closed one smuggling route, but there are others we must eliminate. My contacts suggest there may be one or more high-level officials working with the Russians. Hopefully, counter-intelligence can expose them.”

“Some politicians are showing pro-Russian sentiments,” said Kalyna. “Let’s pray the US eventually gets their aid bill through Congress, not just the stop-gap measures.”

“The war is at a dangerous crossroads,” added Vasy. “Especially when Pope Francis talks about us having the courage to negotiate an end to this war with Russia, when it’s Putin who needs to show good faith by withdrawing his troops.”

“Peace on Russia’s terms means surrender,” said Larisa. “As a Russian, I feel safer here and fighting alongside my wife to keep Ukraine free.”

“As do I”, said her cousin, Sergei. “Although tonight, I’m sorry to remind you our film starts once the blinds are drawn and the lights go out.”

“However, after it’s over,” added his partner, Mariyka. “You can stay, order food, and discuss whatever. First, though, this movie was selected by my engineering team…” Loud cheering engulfed the cadets, “…as central to the plot is rebuilding a crashed aircraft. I hope you enjoy the 1965 original film ‘The Flight of the Phoenix’ based on the book of the same name.”

Fairchild C-82A Packet N53228 used in the 1965 Robert Aldrich film, “The Flight of the Phoenix”, at Long Beach Airport, Long Beach, California in 1970. It is painted in the colors of the fictional “Arabco Oil Company”. Author: RuthAS

Aleks noticed her friend, Nadia’s troubled face.

“Did the film bother you? You aren’t thinking your… alter-ego has been—”

“Exposed, no. Just a coincidence. It was the nomadic raiders in the film reminding me of those smugglers somehow… and the danger I’ve exposed you all to.”

“More dangerous than evading missiles? It’s a job we’re trained for. And I’ve got a suggestion to help the squadron.”

“Tougher than tracking smugglers?”

Aleks winked.

“Harder … as we’ll need permission from someone. But it’ll be popular with our sisters. Every time a flight changes bases, its core ground crew must make a long road trip. It would make more sense to fly them in our Puszczyk. It carries 4 passengers and a pilot, so that’s workable, although a few might have to take their break in the nearest city… unless they had essential work on the base.”

“Agreed, and with the new flight rotation, you’d be full going both ways. Plus, the monthly film could be shown later at Kalyniv, which would also be popular with the squadron.”

Nadia turned and waved the majors over.

“You worried about the title of the film?” asked Vasy quietly.

Nadia shook her head. “Instead, a suggestion we just agreed on.”

Once Aleks explained the ground crew idea, there was only one comment.

“As long as the Polish farmers don’t object,” said Kalyna. “They’ve hassled our crews every trip. Although you won’t be evading their blockade, just flying over it.”

The two helicopter pilots chuckled but then went silent as Vasy mentioned the real problem.

“As long as Russia denies Ukraine even air superiority, we risk attempts to fly any significant cargo in by being shot down by them.”

“A concern even when we fly our jets across the border,” said Kalyna. “Except, we’re away from the front line, though that hasn’t saved Western Ukraine from suffering destructive aerial attacks.”

“Which reminds me, as does the film, of what Kalyna’s grandfather, did evading the Soviet blockade during the Berlin Airlift by ferrying supplies for West Berliners…”

“But Vasy, granddad flew a Handley Page Halton not a Fairchild Packet, as used in the movie, although the USAF flew a few of those. However, he served in Korea, flying the successor of the Phoenix craft, the Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar.”

“Which they used for the disappointing 2004 remake. And that did have ruthless gunrunners,” said Nadia. “However, maybe we need to consider how best to run Putin’s blockade.”

A U.S. Air Force Fairchild C-119B-10-FA *Flying Boxcar* (s/n 49-102) of the 314th Troop Carrier Group in 1952. This aircraft was later converted to a C-119C in 1955-56. (US Air Force photo)

1,350 words

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Flight_of_the_Phoenix_(1965_film)

Freedom Flights Episode 18 Steadfast Phoenix – Part 2

March 28, 2024 by Roland Clarke

This is Part 2 of Freedom Flights Episode 18 Steadfast Phoenix which I am aiming to post in three parts on consecutive days. The link for Part 1 is at https://rolandclarke.com/2024/03/27/freedom-flights-episode-18-steadfast-phoenix/, and all the previous episodes of Freedom Flights can be found at https://rolandclarke.com/freedom-flights/.

Episode 18 – Steadfast Phoenix

Part 2

2024

SW-4 Puszczyk – by Łukasz Golowanow, Konflikty.pl

Tuesday, March 5^th –– Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Nadia had demonstrated some of her helicopter skills on the previous evening’s journey back to Dęblin. Once accommodated, the two recruits were introduced to other Witches in the Zvenigora Restaurant.

Before he returned to Lviv, Maksym called a morning meeting with the recruits, the two squadron leaders, and Maryna, the only other flight leader not in Ukraine.

“When we were contacted about recruits,” he said. “The message implied we would be asked to help an organization already involved somehow. Can either of you enlighten us, please?”

Nadia stood and walked to the wall map of Ukraine and its neighbours including Poland.

“I can tell you what I can. Although my primary intention is to fight for our motherland, I require help in tackling the smuggling of arms originally intended for Ukraine.”

Kalyna stared at her. Then asked, “Our motherland? Aren’t you French? Yet, you speak perfect Ukrainian. Are you still in the French military?”

Nadia laughed. “My apologies for the unintentional confusion. My mother is Québécois – French-Canadian – and my father is Canadian-Ukrainian, but we moved to Lyons in France, when I was eight. My father taught me to fly, and I ended up in the French Air and Space Force, eventually flying helicopters to provide air support to other special forces units anywhere in the world. Officially, I was at the Exercise as an observer.”

“For the organization investigating arms smuggling?” asked Vasy.

Nadia looked at them all.

“Yes. Two years ago, I was recruited by Zoo Sécurité, an Interpol-approved agency, whose operatives are primarily from the Chasseurs Alpins, an elite French special forces regiment that I had flown into combat zones.”

“Are you working for this Zoo Sécurité or us?” asked Maksym.

“Both. The weapons being smuggled were initially destined for Ukraine’s forces. Now we believe they are being moved via Poland into Belarus and then to the enemy. On February 28^th, your Gold Flight reported a convoy of three vehicles crossing into Belarus here.” She indicated the point on the map.” Correct?”

“Unofficially, yes,” replied Maksym. “Did your bosses request the surveillance?”

“Via your Polish allies, who are concerned their territory is being used for this illegal operation. However, jet fighters are too fast for surveillance, which is why this squadron is being sent two helicopters… a PZL SW-4 Puszczyk by the Polish Air Force and a Eurocopter Tiger HAP by Airbus Helicopters SAS, the manufacturers.

Aleks stared at her. “I’m surprised after yesterday. When this assignment is over, you’re heading home to France?”

“Never. I’m Ukrainian and always will be. Now and when it’s over, I want to fly Gripens or F-16s as a Witch.”

Vasy smiled. “Like me and Kalyna, and others who changed nationality to drive Putin out. Okay, first explain how you operate and what we can do, especially while the Witches only have two active flights in Ukraine.”

“All Zoo Sécurité operatives have a codename for use in the field. Mine is Phénix – Phoenix in Canadian English. However, we only use them when undercover, so while I’m a Witch, keep calling me Nadia. As for the smuggling, I need permission to patrol the area where the crossing was made. I plan on using a helicopter when one arrives. Otherwise, I’m open to suggestions please.”

“I will discuss the smuggling problem with my superiors,” said Maksym. “Although I suspect they know enough to have approved the border mission… and discussed it with their Polish counterparts.”

“During the Dragon 24 exercise,” said Aleks, “I asked my commanding officer about the issue and whether he had heard anything of concern. Once he’d talked with Nadia, he agreed to supply a Puszczyk to this squadron. Plus, he’ll liaise with those superiors who must be aware of the smuggling.”

Kalyna stood and walked to the map. Then she ran her finger around Poland’s border with allies.

“Do we know where the arms are entering this country? Who are the main suppliers?”

Nadia had come prepared and pinned two sheets on the corkboard beside the map.

“The lefthand list shows the main suppliers of arms to Ukraine with the US heading the list unsurprisingly, with Germany second. However, Poland has provided far more than their global arms exports would suggest. The right-hand list is the global exports with the US ahead again. Germany is also second globally, ahead of China, then France. However, most of the arms come legally, mainly by air, into Poland, although en route by road into Ukraine, is when we fear some disappear into the illegal network—”

“And so, via Belarus into Russian hands,” added Aleks. “We must prove this and strangle the theft of our arms. Yes, I too have become Ukrainian.”

Maksym clasped his hands together. “I can see this is a priority for Nadia and she needs one other to help her initially. Aleks?”

The Polish-Ukrainian nodded her agreement.

Maksym continued. “Until this arms smuggling complicated matters, you had nine available pilots in Dęblin, which would have been enough to form two flights. However, what would your strategy be now, Majors?”

Kalyna and Vasy exchanged notes. Then Kalyna took the lead.

“We suggest rotating three flights, with two at Kalyniv Airfield while one is here at Dęblin resting, recuperating, training and doing any high-tech repairs.”

“Gold should return first,” added Vasy. “They spotted the convoy on a mission designed to monitor cross-border incursions like this. Now, Nadia and Aleks can assess the incident with first-hand accounts.”

“Please can I offer a solution to how we choose the flight to send,” said Maryna.

“Granted,” said her superiors in unison.

“Sable Flight needs to be reformed and the survivors of last year’s attack have recovered for the most part, so we need combat – and a chance to show off our cool nose art. Thanks, Dęblin fine art and engineering department.”

Everyone laughed.

“Who are your chosen flight sisters?” asked Vasy.

“Lieutenant Katia Antonov as we’ve always flown together. Sergeant Polina Melnyk since you, Vasy must have encouraged and taught her so much from your wealth of experience. Finally, Kalyna, may I add one of your cadets, and if so whom do you recommend?”

“Cheeky but clever pitch for Sable Flight. Choose Cadet Zlata Kovalchuk as she has shown aptitude, initiative, and foresight. She would round off a great flight.”

Kalyna consulted with Vasy and Maksym, before announcing their decision.

“We agree that Gold Flight should return to Dęblin by Thursday 0630 and report on their observations. Unless there is an emergency, they are due ten days’ leave as long as they can reach this base when re-called.” Kalyna paused then continued, “Sabre Flight as selected by Kapitan Maryna Sobol will leave for Kalyniv at 1700 tomorrow for a tour of three weeks. That could change in an emergency or if we receive additional recruits.”

Maksym pointed out the window towards the Engineering hanger.

“Depending on what Kapitan Mariyka Shevchuk and Master Engineer Anatol Krakarth report, some of their cadets may be ready to join your training flight, Kalyna. I may check up on them before I leave and see if they’ve devised anything innovative for our arsenal.”

Wednesday, March 6^th –– Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Kapitan Maryna Sobol and her new flight sisters were gathered in the downstairs briefing room prior to their imminent departure for Kalyniv.

“Welcome to Sable Flight where we strive to be a family within the Witches’ extended family. My Number 2, Lieutenant Katia Antonov knows all my quirks as we’ve flown together since Canada, so if I act scary, talk to her.

“Kalyniv Airfield will be our home for the next three weeks until we return here… unless there’s an emergency. You noted some of the ground crew left at dawn with our belongings, so they will arrive sometime tonight.”

Her tone became more serious. “We cannot forget there’s a war on. You all must know the base was targeted on October 3^rd last year…” She winced and then touched her face. “But the base now has deep shelters and improved defences. Just be extra vigilant, please, in the air and on the ground.”

She stood and gathered up her flying gear.

“Finally, on a lighter note, you will have seen the nose art on Katia and my planes. We need a simplified version to differentiate Sable’s jets from other flights. This is one idea from our Engineering cadets.”

She passed the design around as some ground crew helped them into their flying suits.

Outside they walked to their MiG-29s, where a small crowd admired the nose art.

Nadia was staring intently at the glowing bird of living fire.

“It’s the Phoenix, like my…” She paused, not knowing who knew her secret. “Shouldn’t fire be burning him – his re-birth?”

Kalyna and Vasy smiled, then let Maryna explain.

“This image is on the biplane that their Night Witch grandmothers flew out of Ukraine in 1944. It now hangs in Chayka Air’s main hangar. Katia and I copied the original artwork with their permission. It’s Zharptica the Slavic firebird.”

“One night, around a campfire,” said Vasy. “I’ll tell you all about Zharptica’s origin, although for our grandmothers it was a re-birth—”

“And the flames were enemy incendiary,” added Kalyna. “Plus, fire from the bombs the original Night Witches dropped.” She looked at her watch. “Time to leave sisters. May Zharptica bless your tour and bring doom and the wrath of Saint George down on our enemies.”

Sabre Flight climbed into their MiG-29s, and the ground crew secured them in their cockpits.

With the setting sun glistening on them, the four midnight-blue fighters took off and headed east towards Ukraine.

Thursday, March 7^th –– Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

As sunrays rose over Dęblin, Kapitan Anzhela Havrylyuk led Gold Flight down onto the snow-cleared runway. Then the ground crew directed the jets to safe parking bays.

Nearby Anzhela saw Kalyna and Vasy with two unfamiliar officers, whom she presumed were the reported latest recruits. As she drew near, she saluted the majors.

“Good to have you back Gold Flight,” said Kalyna, “For now we are trying to rotate three flights, two on combat scramble in Kalyniv for 3 weeks, one here for a week’s rest and reviews. You’re here as our first R&R test subjects. First, though, get settled, and relax, and then second, after an early lunch come back upstairs to the office at 1300 to meet these new Witches. Dismissed.”

Just as Gold Flight began to disperse, a klaxon sounded for another incoming flight.

Multiple rotor blades whipped up dust and snow from the tarmac. Most watched as two helicopters in the squadron’s distinctive midnight blue flew across the runway, and then settled on their freshly painted landing pads.

“Perfectly timed delivery of two performance helis,” said Nadia. “One PZL SW-4 Puszczyk supplied by the Polish Air Force and a Eurocopter Tiger HAP donated by Airbus Helicopters SAS, the manufacturers, in the hope we make innovations… as we often do.”

“Then you can give me the tour before the meeting,” said Aleks. “So, I’m not lost.”

Through the large window overlooking the assembly area, Anzhela Havrylyuk studied the two figures outside inspecting the two helicopters in great detail.

“Who are they? We’re a specialist night fighter squadron, aren’t we?”

Kalyna put an arm across her shoulders and led her to where the rest of Gold Flight were seated in the main office.

“Patience, then we will all know more about this new phase in our war.”

Moments later the newcomers came upstairs on time.

“Sisters, these are our latest recruits, Kapitan Aleks Górski from the Polish Air Force.” She paused to let Aleks step forward and salute.

“And this is Kapitan Nadia Lysenko from the French 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment, but as well as helicopters, she has been trained to fly fourth-generation fighters, primarily Dassault Rafales.”

Nadia stepped forward, saluted, and then shouted Slava Ukrayini.

Everyone shouted in response “Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the heroes!”

Vasy directed the new Witches to sit and then walked to the wall map.

“On Wednesday, February 28^th, Gold Flight reported a convoy of three vehicles crossing into Belarus here.” She indicated the point on the map. “Correct Sergeant Albina Zyma? You spotted the convoy… thank goodness. Over to you, Nadia.”

“First, I serve Ukraine and the Night Witches, but I have a secondary mission, to stop the illegal diversion of arms destined for Ukraine going instead to enemy forces. With those helicopters outside and Aleks’ help, I have a chance.”

“And any observations you made,” added Aleks, “could prove invaluable. Anytime.”

“How do you plan to use the different whirlybirds?” asked Anzhela. “They seem so different, one a scout and the other a gunship. Why?”

“Surveillance with both done differently. The Puszczyk for tracking the convoys, although I suspect the Tiger has the specialist equipment to cover more than just a small area of territory with its sophisticated stealth and surveillance features. However,” continued Nadia, “It will take a few missions to adapt to the smugglers’ tactics.”

“We can start with your first-hand accounts of the February 28^th convoy, please,” said Aleks.

2,203 words

Freedom Flights: Episode 18 – Steadfast Phoenix – Part 1

March 27, 2024 by Roland Clarke

As we approach the end of March, I have not forgotten my commitment to write an episode of Freedom Flights each month until a just peace for Ukraine is reached. This month I continue to struggle, but nothing compared to the brave people fighting for freedom.

Unlike previous episodes, I am posting this one in three parts as the events required more scenes… and longer to write. The posts should appear on consecutive days.

Links to the previous episodes can be found on my new Freedom Flights page on the left-hand sidebar.

Episode 18 – Steadfast Phoenix

Part 1

2024

Monday, February 26^th -– Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

The Chayka cousins walked slowly around the two jets, studying the familiar nose art.

Kapitan Maryna Sobol, Lieutenant Katia Antonov and their ground crew waited expectantly, praying their graphic skills matched the original artists’.

“You think the whole squadron should copy this design?” asked Kalyna,

Vasy winked. “Or just a select few can use Zharptica?”

“Well, it was the Chayka sisters,” said Vasy’s daughter Klara. “Painted this on their Polikarpov biplane, they flew to freedom… in 1944.”

1944 Polikarpov Po-2 of The Shuttleworth Collection, United Kingdom

“We’ll need a lot more paint to do another 18 planes,” said Polish Cadet Daria Jankowski. “For a full squadron.”

Fellow cadet Nadzieja Chlebek handed Kalyna a sheet of paper.

“Some of us produced this simplified design. Would that be a solution?”

“Probably. Let’s talk in the office where it’s warmer… and a few more of the squadron could discuss the idea of nose art.”

As the evening closed in, the relaxed setting proved fruitful. Although a simpler design was favoured, the cadets’ design inspired others. Or rather three others.

“Makes sense then,” said Kalyna. “We adopt the original Zharptica nose art from the Chayka sisters as our squadron insignia.”

“While each flight uses one of the four simplified designs,” added Vasy, “That we chose this evening. Hopefully, Gold and Blue flights agree when they return from their three weeks at Kalyniv.”

Maryna and Katia whispered together before the former said, “Sable needs two recruits as does your Green Flight, Vasy. I know Mariyka and her engineering cadets keep volunteering, but are there recruits expected from anywhere soon?”

“We’ve had no news of suitable graduates from Kharkiv National Air Force University,” replied Kalyna. “But we received a message via Chayka Air requesting two Night Witches to attend Exercise Dragon 24 as guest observers. It’s a Polish-led exercise, part of NATO’s Steadfast Defender 24.”

“When, where, and why, Major?”

“On Monday, March 4^th near Korzeniewo. Supposedly, to meet ‘qualified recruits crucial to the war effort’, according to the message. Attend as Vasy’s second and find out for us, Kapitan Sobol.”

Wednesday, February 28^th – Kalyniv Airfield near the Polish border, Ukraine

Kapitan Anzhela Havrylyuk led the four MiG-29s of Gold Flight down onto the welcome runway of Kalyniv, after a strange mission chasing ghosts up along the Polish border.

Once she had landed and taxied towards her jet’s revetment, the ground crew took over, backing the MiG-29 into the blast-proof bay.

She climbed out, exhausted but ready for a confused debriefing. Her partner Larisa Kovalyov embraced her, just before her flight sisters coaxed her towards the office block.

“Meet you later in the canteen, lastachka.”

“When today’s mystery is resolved, myshka.”

Inside the briefing room, the Air Command West officer let the curious pilots settle before speaking.

“Good evening, ladies. I know you’ve probably been wondering all day about this afternoon’s ghost hunt. For now, I’ll just ask your flight leader, Kapitan Havrylyuk whether any unusual activities were spotted along the border.”

“Along the Ukraine-Polish frontier, the only detectable crossings were at official checkpoints, with the expected holdups of trucks both ways by the Polish farming protestors.” Anzhela paused for any corrections. Then she continued. “When we were cleared to enter Polish airspace, we flew almost along the Belarus border, as instructed and away from any hostile ground defences.”

“Did you detect anything unusual?”

“Not at first, but on our return flight, Sergeant Albina Zyma spotted a suspicious convoy of three camouflaged vehicles using a forest track to cross into enemy territory without alerting any noticeable border security.”

“Without aerial footage this time, it may be hard to corroborate. Sergeant Zyma did you get the MGRS coordinates for the crossing? We will need to pass a report on. But please keep this mission confidential. You’re all dismissed… once I have the coordinates. Thank you, ladies.”

Anzhela pondered why the Military Grid Reference System coordinates were needed. Who was the convoy and why was it heading into Belarus? Did she dare discuss this with anyone? Albina or Larisa? Best to keep quiet. Amid a war and NATO’s largest exercise in decades, speculation could be misleading, maybe even dangerous.

She followed the three other pilots into the canteen, where the ground crew had already ordered drinks and food for everyone, including Blue Flight.

“How top secret was your debriefing by ACW?” asked Blue leader, Adriana Pavlenko.

“So hush-hush, we’re still in the dark,” replied Anzhela. “Looking for ghosts.”

Albina took her to one side and quietly said, “If I had to guess at what that convoy was, I’d suggest smugglers. But heading into Belarus, I’m unsure carrying what?”

“We need to leave it at that… until we learn more. Now it’s time to relax.”

They joined Larisa and their ground crew, leaving Blue Flight to the mystery.

When the two Gold pilots had left, Adriana tuned to her flight-sister Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk.

“I’d hoped we had no secrets in this squadron. Am I wrong?”

“No. I suspect we’ll all discover where the ghosts are. I just wish the F-16s would arrive and our front-line troops could get what they’re running short of.”

“Like ammunition,” added Cadet Taisia Kovalchuk, pointing to the television. The news channel was showing a clip from America’s CNBC with Ukrainian subtitles.

Her fellow cadet, Halyna Boyka, turned the sound up and the canteen went quiet.

Ukraine’s former president Petro Poroshenko was being interviewed, saying,

“…Every single hour of delay in the supply of artillery shells means human lives, and the lives of our civilians are lost. This is too high a price.”

Thursday, March 1^st -– Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Vasy Chayka and Maryna Sobol waited while Colonel Maksym Bondarenko finished reading the message with their orders. Then he turned towards them.

“My instructions are to accompany you both, arriving by 0400 on Monday, March 4^th at specific MGRS coordinates near Korzeniewo. We are to observe the start of Exercise Dragon 24, part of NATO’s Steadfast Defender 24. We will be contacted by two ‘qualified recruits crucial to the war effort’ in Ukraine.”

“This sounds mysterious,” said Vasy. “Almost cloak and dagger. Odd way to recruit people.”

“Plus, I gather there are requests we help an organization already involved somehow.”

“NATO?” asked Maryna. “Or another?”

Maksym scanned the message again. “Not NATO definitely, although there are implied military connections… not surprising given the rendezvous.”

Vasy pulled up a military map of Poland and then zoomed in on the MGRS coordinates.

“The east bank of the Vistula River. So how are we meant to get there?”

Maksym went to the window of the office. When the two Witches joined him, he pointed at one of the University’s 40 helicopters.

“We’re borrowing one of their PZL SW-4 Puszczyks… and one of you is flying. I presume you are more than proficient in helicopters. I’m out of practice.”

Monday, March 4^th – East bank of Vistula River near Korzeniewo, Poland

Maryna Sobol had spent the previous day adapting to the abilities of the SW-4 Puszczyk, even to its night flying traits. The flight to the Vistula was straightforward, except for all the security procedures to land, even as military guests.

Once on the ground, they were met by a female Polish Air Force officer, speaking Ukrainian.

“It’s an honour to welcome some of our brave allies. I am Kapitan Aleks Górski and I will be your escort for the day.”

Once they had introduced themselves, she led them to one of the viewing stands for dignitaries and media. Although they knew about the exercise in advance, she explained its purpose.

“Today is the first day of Exercise Dragon 24, part of NATO rehearsing techniques to reach the Suwalki Gap, on the Polish-Lithuanian border between Belarus and the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad.”

Aleks paused as more guests arrived. Then she continued, “3,500 personnel and 1,000 equipment units will cross over the Vistula, our largest river, from the village of Opalenie to Korzeniowo for three days. Troops from France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, the UK and the US are involved.”

Maryna wondered whether the two recruits were from any of the participating countries, foreign fighters wanting to help Ukraine… like Vasy and her. Chayka Air was actively seeking recruits and might have looked abroad.

In the dawn light, they could see dark shadows moving across the swirling river. Army-green shapes pushed through the muddy water, wake rolling behind. But before they could emerge from the Vistula, Leopard 2 A4 tanks defending the eastern bank opened fire.

The fight lasted three hours, but eventually, the attacking troops forced their way ashore. Once American and Polish armour was across, support barges crossed loaded with containers of supplies. Overhead fighter jets ensured air cover was maintained throughout the exercise.

Crossing the Vistula – Credit: U.S. European Command

“What planes does your squadron fly?” asked Aleks.

“MiG-29s in Ukraine,” replied Vasy. “But at Dęblin we’re training on NATO fighters like the F-16 and the Gripen C.”

“I trained at Dęblin… and now fly an F-16. But I’d love to fly a Gripen one day.”

“Visit us,” said Maryna. “And I’m sure we can arrange that.”

“Maybe sooner than you think,” said Aleks cryptically. “Time for an early lunch, I believe.”

Over lunch, they discussed the state of the war, primarily the air campaign and the Witches’ role.

Maksym felt he had to clarify.

“At Air Command West, my colleagues and I feel the 2022 Night Witches have a unique role, especially once they can fly their NATO jets in combat.. and at night as intended.”

“The squadron already has F-16s?” asked Aleks.

“Only four two-seater trainers,” replied Vasy. “But we have eight Gripen Cs and twelve CF-18A Hornets which we used before the Russians realized.”

Aleks looked surprised until Maksym clarified.

“Until F-16s have arrived, ACW prefers them to fly MiG-29s… modified at the School of Eagles by a resourceful team of Poles and Ukrainians.”

Maryna realized Aleks was a potential recruit if the opportunity to invite her occurred. Before that arose, the Polish officer stood up.

“I must report to my commander. But I will meet you back at the stand at 1300.”

As they walked back, it was Vasy who mentioned recruiting Aleks.

“She almost volunteered with her interest.”

Maksym smoothed back his hair and then smiled.

“Depends on her squadron releasing her… if she—”

The two Witches stopped and both asked, “What”

“I may be wrong, so wait and see what happens.”

At 1300, Aleks returned with another female officer – wearing a French military lieutenant’s uniform. She saluted and introduced herself in perfect Ukrainian.

“I’m Lieutenant Nadia Lysenko of the 4e Régiment d’Hélicoptères des Forces Spéciales, primarily attached to the13éme Bataillon de Chasseurs Alpins. As well as helicopters, I am trained to fly fourth-generation fighters, primarily Dassault Rafales. I am the person who volunteered for your 2022 Night Witches.”

Rafale – RIAT 2009. Credit: Tim Felce (Airwolfhound)

“You are very welcome with those credentials. I am Major Vasy Chayka. This is Kapitan Maryna Sobol, and from Air Command West, Lviv, this is Colonel Maksym Bondarenko.”

“Very pleased you are volunteering to fight for Ukraine,” said Maksym. “We were expecting two recruits—”

“And there are two of us,” said Aleks, grinning. “But I suspect you were about to ask me.”

“Perfect,” said Maryna. “And if Nadia knows how to fly a PZL SW-4 Puszczyk, then I can relax on the flight home.”

If this French recruit flew helicopters, thought Maryna, she’d handle the compact Polish multipurpose craft with ease. But there was something curious about her. Would she be an asset to the squadron or a hindrance?