As we pass mid-April, it’s time for another long episode of Freedom Flights. Until a just peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page on the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 19 – Hidden Resource
2024
Friday, April 5th –– Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
– Author
Dkamelio photo
Maksym Bondarenko waited for his coffee and an indication from one of the Chayka cousins as to why he had been requested to visit his favourite squadron away from Air Command West in Lviv.
Kalyna broke the silence. “We know all rumours should be ignored, but perhaps not this one. With limited F16s promised by our allies possibly by June, we’ve been calculating what happens next. UAF could receive from 19 to 60 jets which gives 5 to15 flights.”
Vasy continued as a cadet brought in coffee. “That means only one to three squadrons will receive F-16s, presumably only the elite pilots training to fly the US jets. But not us Night Witches.”
Maksym sipped his coffee. “I’ll never lie to you, ladies. You are correct and even if you arranged some of the training here, that hasn’t swayed my superiors. I’m sorry. However, once NATO jets like F-16s are flying in Ukraine, we feel you are entitled to use your twelve CF-18A Hornets and eight Gripen Cs in their most effective role.” He stared at them both, then asked, “There’s something else, isn’t there?”
Kalyna smiled. “Astute as ever, Maksym. We heard some discussion of having to station the new F-16 squadrons further west. But how far west? Will our combat flights still use Kalyniv?”
Silence except for a nervous colonel sipping his coffee.
“All depends on which bases the Russians make unusable. They will attempt to force our F-16 pilots to fly further to reach their targets so have less time to be effective. As for Kalyniv, it’s one of our most westerly, yet you may have to reduce your flights there to perhaps one Hornet flight—”
“And explore regular dispersed operations with two Gripen flights,” added Vasy. “Along the lines of Sweden’s Cold War BAS90 system, although more suited to current requirements. Kalyna and I have discussed how we should prepare the squadron for that eventuality.”
Maksym seemed ready to interject, but Kalyna was faster.
“We realise the UAF survived the early stages of the war by swiftly putting into operation a dispersed and agile-based strategy, with aircraft and pilots kept rotating around a larger number of airfields in western Ukraine—”
Maksym nodded.
“Exactly, our jets never took off and landed at the same airfield in a single sortie. Our pilots had been training to use roads as temporary airstrips. But with F-16s we will struggle to do that again—”
“Although with Gripens and MiGs, even Hornets, the Witches could… especially if we prepared by identifying ideal displaced strips. First, though, I propose going to Sweden and talking to Chayka Air’s contacts who might have invaluable suggestions and could supply useful materiel from maintenance items to—”
“More Gripens,” added Vasy. “Meanwhile, our helicopter pilots could scout out suitable landing and takeoff strips with nearby forest cover to mask ground crew, equipment container, and support vehicles.”
“As this could take time, you have my authority to proceed,” said Maksym, draining his coffee. “Just keep me informed. Your heli-pilots will need clearance to scout some areas though.”
**
Tuesday, April 16th – Kalyniv Airfield near the Polish border
Nadia Lysenko, Aleks Górski, and Mariyka Shevchuk walked into the crowded bar at Kalyniv, having ensured their two helicopters were secured in a reinforced hanger. Four new squadron mechanics nervously followed them inside.
“Don’t worry,” said Mariyka. “This bar has no rank restrictions. Let’s find Blue Flight so you can explain the plan, Aleks… as you understand the ‘austere basing system’ best.”
Adriana Pavlenko, Blue leader, waved them to where pilots and ground crew were chatting having completed their three weeks of combat sorties.
“Great to see the ride home has arrived for our ace ‘grease monkeys’. When do you want to leave for Dęblin?” She hesitated, noting there were three pilots. “Or have the Majors got new orders for us as the flight rotation seems irregular?”
“Not exactly, although we have been preparing for a new strategy,” replied Nadia. “But I’ll let Aleks explain.”
“First, your ten days of combat rest has not been cancelled… just interrupted. Second, we need your assistance completing the first stage of our dispersed base recce. Nadia and I have identified the first definite site from which MiG-29s and Gripens could operate and then relocate to keep the enemy confused.”
Olha Tkachuk asked, “Do you mean a stretch of highway with a secure maintenance area, which no squadron has ever claimed or used?”
“Exactly. So, we need to run some test flights with MiG-29s with you landing your planes, and maneuvering so your ground crews can rearm you, run maintenance checks, refuel each jet, and then you can take off again. Is that clear?”
“Except what equipment should we use?” asked one of the Blue Flight mechanics.
Aleks gestured for Mariyka to pick up the point.
“Our engineering group in Dęblin are still working on plans to develop a mobile response akin to Saab’s support devices for Gripens. For instance, we are building a transportable shipping container similar to the Gripen one we were sent… although this one will have everything for MiG-29s when finished in a few weeks.
“However, in one helicopter we brought a prototype winch for use with MiGs tomorrow. I’m here to monitor its effectiveness in a field trial akin to a real quick response. Aleks and Nadia, I’m sure you’ve more to add.”
Aleks gave the chief mechanic written instructions of where the dispersed site was, what equipment they should bring, and key vehicles like a small refueling truck and a fire tender, plus the time when they must be at the dispersed forest encampment.
“We’ll brief you Blue Flight pilots at 0800,” added Nadia. “We all leave at designated times to arrive in sequence. Mariyka and I will lead in the Eurocopter Tiger to ensure there are no unwelcome intruders. Aleks will bring our new mechanics to observe, learn and then return the vehicles here.”
“When the test flights are complete, I will fly back to Dęblin with those due combat rest and without aerial transport. Just remember until we are back in Poland, this is a war zone.”
**
Wednesday, April 17th – Forest road near Zarichchya, Lviv Oblast, Ukraine
Nadia hovered over the forest as she and Mariyka scouted for unwelcome intruders, although they knew Blue Flight would be on full alert as they approached the designated landing strip.
The ground crew had already found the area which the advance recce by Nadia and Aleks had designated as best for fast maintenance. With the fuel truck backed into the layby, there was still enough room for a MiG-29 to be maneuvered off the highway, refuelled and rearmed while other system checks were being made.
Further back in the forest was an area for an encampment if the crew were to remain overnight or longer. Aleks had already landed the Puszczyk here to offload the new mechanics and their equipment.
Nadia settled the Tiger to one side but continued to monitor the communication traffic and surveil nearby activity.
Mariyka climbed out with the prototype winch and went to co-ordinate the turnaround of each jet.
“Blue One requesting permission to land.” came Kapitan Adriana Pavlenko’s request.
“Landing clear,” said Mariyka as a colleague directed the MiG down. The turnaround was smooth, efficient, and fast.
Adriana was ready to take off in just over 12 minutes but taxied down the highway awaiting her Flight sisters… or orders to leave.
“Tiger to Blue One. Immediate takeoff. Intercept incoming missiles. Everyone take evasive action.”
Mariyka climbed into the Eurocopter as Nadia prepared for a steep climb out of the forest. They scanned the combat area noting Blue Flight was already destroying the swarm of incoming targets.
However, three had evaded the jets and were streaking towards the maintenance area. But pilot and gunner both launched a salvo of Mistral infrared-homing short-range missiles that obliterated the danger.
The debris fell short of all except some spare tyres. The fire tender crew leapt into swift action saving most of the spares.
The Chief Mechanic, Anhelina Janda ordered the highway cleared of any wreckage before the Flight could land. The maintenance area was readied for more jets.
Nadia hovered over the forest clearing scanning for another attack.
“Blue One to Tiger, no hostiles in the area we will return as before.”
Having landed in the clearing, Mariyka climbed out and ensured the ground crew were at their station, while Nadia continued to run all the scans.
“Blue Two beginning approach.”
Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk made a perfect landing, and the ground crew shaved some time off Blue One’s. This time Olha took off immediately and joined her leader circling the forest.
The final two pilots, Sergeant Taisia Kovalchuk and Cadet Halyna Boyka, soon joined them, as the ground crew kept improving their turnaround time.
“Tiger to Blue Flight. Thanks for the success of the test with its real war episode. You are free to return to Dęblin. We will have our debrief when Aleks, Mariyka and I return.”
“Good flying Tiger.”
As the MiG-29s headed back to Poland, Nadia joined the ace ground crew clearing the final signs of an effective trial.
“You did the squadron proud today, lady grease monkey troop,” said Mariyka and they all laughed, slapping each other on the back and hugging. “The core of Blue Flight’s ground crew is flying back to Dęblin, but the others will take the next trip, although you can take time off in Lviv. However, I think your Chief Mechanic, Anhelina Janda wants to say something before you head back to Kalyniv.”
“Another impressive display… troop,” said Anhelina. “But I know we can be faster. We will have to be if that attack was not a coincidence. In future, we need to ensure the fuel truck and the armaments are further apart even if that requires a swifter response. Any suggestions on optimal positioning are welcome.
“Please can the two regular members of the troop returning to Kalyniv ensure our new mechanics meet the other flights? Don’t forget your combat break in Dęblin will be the priority next time… thanks to our new gals. And you are entitled to go into Lviv. Safe journey everyone.”
*
Wednesday, April 17th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
The night was descending on Poland by the time the two helicopters landed safely back in Dęblin.
The four Blue Flight jets were being secured for the night with the help of cadets, but Anhelina’s troop climbed out of the Puszczyk to take over.
Nadia was shutting down the Tiger to join the pilots when a fair-haired lanky man approached her.
“Awesome copter and stunning pilot,” he said in Ukrainian, but with a Polish accent, and she recognized him as the Academy’s helicopter instructor, Brajan Rudawski.
She smiled and then thanked him. “Have you flown in many?”
“Never but I know its specs and ability. I’ve seen you flying it and wondered…” He went red, hesitated… but eventually asked, “Is it hard to fly?”
She laughed. “The hardest one I ever mastered, especially in combat zones. Maybe when we’re both free, I can show you. However, now my colleagues and I have a debrief.”
“How about dinner later then, please?”
She glanced at her friends, then winked.
“Mariyka, can we get a late booking at the Zvenigora tonight?”
“Of course. Want to make it a double date with Sergei? Aleks as well?”
Brajan went redder, but asked, “Should I bring a friend then, or has she someone?”
“Not yet,” said Aleks in Polish as she approached from behind the Puszczyk. “Surprise me.”
“A booking for six people at nine, please,” said Mariyka into her phone.
*
The debrief with Major Vasy Chayka was intense due to the attack.
“How did the Russians know when and where to strike?” asked Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk. “That could have proved costly if they’d hit say the fuel truck refueling a crewed MiG.”
Nadia looked at Vasy hoping she had heard something, but it was her operation, so she made a suggestion.
“I suspect our recces were observed and there are still people with Russian allegiances reporting potential targets. A long-range enemy bomber with the means to detect a gathering of our size could have launched that attack safely inside Belarus. Fortunately, we had the firepower to shoot down every rocket and missile.”
Vasy shook her head. “But you were lucky and might not be next time.”
“Exactly,” said Nadia. “Next time we use three dispersed sites, set up in advance, dug in securely, camouflaged, and we only decide the ones used at short notice, even rotating the usage… much like you did in the opening days of the war.”
Everyone nodded and Adriana Pavlenko, Blue Leader said, “That makes more sense than blaming a fictitious spy in the squadron… which nobody has yet.”
“And my monkey troop will keep training,” added Chief Mechanic Anhelina. “Plus working with Mariyka’s engineers to devise better tools and gadgets to speed up the turnaround.
“While we are all here in Poland we can all train without the war raging around us,” said Aleks. “But don’t forget all those fighting every day.”
“I will send a report to Maksym at ACW as he may want other precautions put in place,”
*
Wednesday, April 17th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
Mariyka welcomed Nadia and Aleks at the door of the restaurant and led them to their table. Their dates arrived late and nervous, but Sergei relaxed them by offering everyone complimentary drinks as he let his partner take over.
“My aunt Agnieszka is the owner and runs it with my sister Sabina and my partner Sergei’s help, I’m committed to the Engineering Project and test-flying refurbished planes.”
A young grinning waiter bounced up with the single-page menus, “And I’m Tomas. My mother and I worked with Mariyka’s mum in the sister restaurant in Lviv.” He choked on his tears adding, “Horribly, it was destroyed in a bombing raid which killed both our mums.”
Mariyka put an arm around the boy. “You are so brave. Please tell my aunt that I survived another secret op and my guests are here.”
When the tall woman with dark hair streaked white came out of the kitchen and embraced her, Mariyka introduced her aunt Agnieszka.
Nadia then presented, “Brajan Rudawski, who teaches the Academy cadets to fly helicopters, and you’ve met my friend and usual co-pilot Aleks Górski. Although today your niece took that role and learnt fast.”
“So, there’s hope for someone with my skills,” said Brajan and his friend chuckled. “Ignore Igor Dubicki, he’s jealous. Oh sorry, Aleks, this my colleague who knows everything about helis and more.”
Aleks smiled putting him at ease, so he talked.
“And I know the Eurocopter Tiger takes years to master, and crew new to the Tiger have to undergo substantial retraining due to the differences from older platforms. So well done Nadia and good luck Brajan.”
“True,” said Nadia, “But then my tutor said it is ‘the easiest-handling aircraft I have ever flown’. Though mastery under fire is tough.”
“Are you implying you’ve seen combat before coming here,” asked Brajan. “Where?”
Sergei pulled out Mariyka’s chair, saying, “Let’s sit and order before you answer that intriguing question.”
The three couples sat and agreed to order, as recommended, a selection of Zvenigora’s best dishes to share.
Once their drinks arrived and they were waiting for the first courses, Brajan asked Nadia where she had seen combat and at what age.”
She took a shot of Pernod.
“For French courage, to suppress any demons. Anyway, my Witch sisters know the basics by now. French-Canadian mother, Canadian-Ukrainian father, moved to France when I was eight. My father taught me to fly, and I enlisted aged 17 in the French Air and Space Force. At 26 I was flying helicopters in the 4e Régiment d’Hélicoptères des Forces Spéciales, primarily attached to the13éme Bataillon de Chasseurs Alpins.”
“Special Forces sounds intense,” said Igor, “Flying low and under fire.”
“Low-level flying a Eurocopter Cougar to get the troops in and out, in places like Afghanistan in 2011 aged 25, some of us flying the Tiger to harass and defend.”
Igor seemed suitably impressed, but he turned his attention to Aleks.
“You’re Polish by your family name Górski? Weren’t you a cadet here, probably when I was… but before Brajan was the hel-instructor. Did you graduate as a pilot… flying helicopters or jets?”
Aleks grinned. “Initially, I wondered about being military transport crew until I flew in an F-16, so that’s what I flew most in the PAF. although the dream is now a Gripen E, although the Witches only have Cs.”
The conversation eased as drinking and then eating took over. Even secretive comments were exchanged. A relaxed mood settled over them as they discussed their favourite dishes, although the sweet debate was postponed.
Then Brajan went serious, asking, “But why are Nadia and Aleks both flying helis in a fighter squadron?”
“My call,” admitted Nadia. “I joined with a mission requiring them, but they’re going to have other uses, But the priority has to be stopping all the aerial attacks—”
“Like on Friday, April 5th the senseless Russian missile strike that totally destroyed the offices of humanitarian organisation Médecins Sans Frontières in the Ukrainian-held town of Pokrovsk,” said Aleks. “They’ve been forced to suspend their medical humanitarian activities in Donetsk Oblast temporarily, except supporting emergency care and ambulance referral services.”
“And that kind of devastation happens every day throughout Ukraine,” said Sergei. “And the flow of Patriot missiles to defend the cities has become a trickle. That’s why every pilot is essential. But I can’t say what jet is best, or if a flying Tiger pounces best… sorry ladies.”
Brajan and Igor whispered together. Then Igor held up his hand for silence.
“After we order the sweet finale to an amazing meal, I have a proposal before we debate culinary choices.”
The dessert order was another sharing. But first Igor had a suggestion.
“I’ve discovered that the Puszczyk is used primarily for ferrying ground crew between bases, but out of a crew of six, two always remain, although taking turns. What happens if one of the ground crew learns to fly?”
“One person gets lonely and steals a vehicle,” said Aleks. “And I become redundant.”
“No,” said Brajan. “You become Nadia’s indispensable co-pilot in the integral Tiger. Both of you perfect your skills in the Gripen. Igor and I help you train Puszczyk pilots, and with Mariyka’s ace engineering team we built a co-pilot’s chair and basic armaments for one helicopter needing love… like all of us.”
All they could do was cheer and kiss.
Gradually the meal drew to a satisfied conclusion with Agnieszka reminding everyone about Zvenigora’s next movie night on Thursday April 25th, screening the 2015 film Battle of Sevastopol’ in Ukrainiian.
When it came to paying for the wonderful meal, all agreed to split the bill evenly, despite Brajan trying to insist he’d invited everyone so he should treat them all.
“However, I chose the restaurant,” said Nadia. “So, under Witches rules I must pay a forfeit. Which has to be what you first wanted. Originally Brajan, you asked, ‘Is it hard to fly?’ meaning the Tiger. You meant to ask, ‘Can you show me how easy it is to fly? Correct.”
Brajan went redder than ever before, saying, “It was a stupid challenge admittedly.”
“Then be geared up for the flight of your life at sunrise tomorrow by the Tigress. Spectators welcome.”
*
Thursday, April 18th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
The first shafts of sunlight filtered through the trees beyond the end of Dęblin’s runway as Brajan walked out to the Eurocopter Tiger HAP, around which a crowd of well-wishers, curious Academy staff and cadets, spellbound Witches, and desperate press.
The first mike was thrust in his face, followed by two more.
“Is this stunt promoting the Academy’s commitment to Ukraine?”
“Will you be teaching this young woman pilot how to perform full loops and negative g manoeuvres?”
“Is the Academy acquiring one of these beasts?”
Fortunately, one of his senior Academy officials stepped alongside him saying, “All your questions will be addressed at the press conference after the demo flight.”
As he was assisted to the Tiger, Nadia said, “I hope this doesn’t get out of hand.”
“As do I. This was meant to be a friend showing me her craft… nothing more.”
And definitely not performing full loops and negative g maneuvers. Somebody was playing a prank. One of his students?
“I don’t know how so many came, even if I said ‘spectators welcome’. Let’s hope the major can turn this around… after we give them a spectacular show. First though, a quick tour of the Tiger before I ask you to take over the rear co-pilot/gunner station. I’ll pilot from the forward position.”
Noting the sophisticated equipment including the avionics, Brajan realized why the Tiger required substantial retraining, but he was glad to have a great teacher in Nadia and that he had absorbed so much as a trainer over the years.
However, knowing they’d be facing a press conference before this was over and having had some sample questions thrown at him, he was already dreading his impending fate. And if he told the truth would the press believe him? What would the one person who really mattered think?
Nadia.
“Brajan, prepare for take-off. Tell the control tower when we are ready to make a simple pass down the runway. Then prepare for some fancy flying. Just ensure that the air space is clear for an eight-minute demonstration of this bird’s abilities.”
He mentally prepared for loop and g manouveres, knowing he was in expert hands. Hands that made them seem normal, as they did flying upside down or demonstrating low level sweeps over the base, before one final climb into a barrel roll.
“Your turn Brajan to close the demo in your own style, and then land. “
He chose his trademark climb, spin, then dive to 17ft above the ground, hover, nose dip bow, a fuselage turn 90 degrees, and nose dip bow. Then repeat at all four compass points before touching down. Simple but a crowd-pleaser.
Engines and rotors cut, then they climbed out to resounding applause.
Grasping each other’s shoulders they were led into a lecture hall that had been set up for a press conference with chairs for four speakers: Brajan Rudawski, Nadia Lysenko, Major Vasy Chayka, and the Academy’s Deputy Commandant, who spoke first.
“First, I must say the School of Eagles is proud to be able to provide one of Ukraine’s finest squadrons the 2022 Night Witches a safe haven to train on NATO’s best fighters as well as use our engineering facilities to rebuild and modify their MiG-29s whilst training our cadets… many of whom are here with their senior trainer, Master Engineer Krakarth.
“Second, I can answer a question put to one pilot and say ‘no’ this is not a stunt promoting the Academy’s commitment to Ukraine. Because our actions are our commitment. I suggest you now talk to the three others beside me. They are Major Vasy Chayka and Kapitan Nadia Lysenko of the Night Witches, and the Academy’s Senior Helicopter Instructor, Brajan Rudawski. First question over there, please?”
“Aaron Garcia from Vuelo del águila, ‘Brajan Rudawski, did you teach this young woman pilot how to perform full loops and negative g manoeuvres?’ If that isn’t confidential.”
Brajan glanced at Nadia who winked back.
“Let’s say I inspired her. What do you think? Can women fly in combat? Of course, ask the lady who she is and be surprised.”
Aaron defiantly asked, “What combat experience do you bring to this squadron please, Kapitan Lysenko? Are you Ukrainian?
Nadia took a microphone. “Apologies if this is lengthy as some have heard this already. At least now everybody can read or hear the truth.
“First, I’m Kapitan Nadia Lysenko of the 2022 Night Witches Squadron. Although my mother is French-Canadian and my father is Canadian-Ukrainian, we have lived in France, since I was eight. But now I’m Ukrainian and always will be.
“Second, do I bring any combat experience to the Witches? Not as much as the Major, but some. I flew with the 4e Régiment d’Hélicoptères des Forces Spéciales, primarily attached to the13éme Bataillon de Chasseurs Alpins and saw action low-level flying a Eurocopter Cougar to get the troops in and out, in places, sometimes flying the Tiger to harass and defend, like Afghanistan in 2011. Also the 2nd Ivorian Civil War in 2011 and seven years later in northern Mali flying Eurocopter Tigers and Eurocopter Cougars.”
KAPISA PROVINCE, Afghanistan A French Army AH Tigre helicopter takes off and heads out to participate in a joint U.S. and French live fire helicopter exercise at Forward Operating Base Morales-Frazier Jan. 23. The exercise consisted of a pre-mission brief, walk around of aerial assets, and live-fire practice on the FOBs Blue Max range. Pilots and combat ground controllers took the opportunity to practice communication between the two forces. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Kyle Brasier, Kapisa Provincial Reconstruction Team Public Affairs) – Author DVIDSH
The Deputy Commandant thanked Nadia for the clarifying answer and then invited another questioner.
“Jane Wetherby from Chayka News Network. First, greetings from Canada and the UK. I’m wondering Major why a squadron of unique female pilots needs two helicopters when they are recruiting female jet pilots and training them on F-16s and Gripens?”
Kalyna gladly addressed the British journalist who helped the squadron promote itself abroad.
“Both helicopters fulfill different functions. The Puszczyk provides us with a fast means to ferry our ground crews to the various bases from which our flights operate. The Tiger as a powerful and stealthy attack helicopter provides our flights not only extra firepower, but considerable communication, jamming and surveillance capabilities, battlefield management and map display systems, which allows the two-woman crew to manage our attacks, Yesterday, in a covert operation, jets, helicopters, and ground crew stymied an enemy attack.
”Furthermore, our two heli-pilots are both fast jet pilots. Kapitan Aleks Górski flew F-16s in the Polish Air Force and Nadia Lysenko as a Lieutenant trained to fly fourth-generation fighters, primarily Dassault Rafales in the French Forces.”
The deputy commandant looked at Jane Weatherby hoping her questions were answered, but fearing the one question the Academy dreaded. He prayed for salvation in any form.
A young Nordic blonde attracted his attention with her killer business suit and slim briefcase.
“Carita Forsström from Swedish Aero News, a question to Brajan Rudawski, ‘With so many competitive and powerful helicopters on the market is the Academy considering acquiring one of these exquisite crafts after that awesome demonstration?”
Brajan noted the deputy shaking his head, so knew the answer. “Given the craft we already operate, cadets can glean the necessary skills and aptitude to proceed onto more demanding craft. However, the presence of the Night Witches here at Dęblin has already provided some invaluable lessons. We have already instigated a helicopter programe that will be invaluable, and I am sure that Kapitan Nadia Lysenko will show a few advanced students some of the extraordinary abilities of the Eurocopter Tiger HAP.”
The Deputy Commandant thanked Nadia and all the Night Witches for their contribution, plus all his staff.
Then Major Vasy Chaka reciprocated his kind words and closed the press conference. Furthermore, she invited the panel up to her office, plus the three journalists, Aaron Garcia, Jane Wetherby, and Carita Forsström.
*
MPA 4,532 words
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