Ukraine's female drone pilots: 'We are hunted'
As Ukraine's military casualties mount, the number of women operating drones in combat zones has increased significantly, particularly in FPV (First-Person-View) attack units where pilots see through the drone's camera. The Ukrainian military does not disclose casualty figures, but they are widely considered high, forcing reliance on civilians for roles previously held by trained personnel. Aspiring drone pilots undergo a brief but intensive 15-day course before deployment. Three women share their motivations for volunteering in a brutal war zone, highlighting the growing role of women in drone operations since the early months of Russia's full-scale invasion.
Key facts
- Number of women drone pilots in Ukraine is increasing due to military personnel shortages.
- Women are especially present in FPV (First-Person-View) attack units.
- Ukraine's casualty figures are not officially disclosed but considered high.
- Civilians are increasingly taking over roles once filled by trained military personnel.
- Aspiring drone pilots complete a 15-day intensive training course.
- Women have been involved in drone operations since the early months of the invasion.
- The article features interviews with three women drone pilots.
- The source is Der Freitag, referencing The Guardian.
Entities
Institutions
- Der Freitag
- The Guardian
Locations
- Ukraine