Ukrainian Women Embracing Combat Roles as Technology Reshapes the Battlefield
In a significant shift, Ukrainian women are increasingly taking on combat roles in the country’s military, driven by the technological transformation of modern warfare. According to military officials, this change is made possible by advancements in technology, which have opened up new paths for women to contribute to the war effort. One such example is Monka, a 26-year-old soldier who joined the military as a pilot of short-range, first-person view (FPV) drones after leaving her job managing a restaurant abroad.
Monka’s story is part of a larger trend, with over 70,000 women serving in Ukraine’s military in 2025, a 20% increase compared to 2022. This includes over 5,500 women deployed directly on the front line, according to Ukraine’s Defense Ministry. The Ukrainian army has also launched recruitment efforts tailored towards women, expanding rosters and strengthening its forces. Leaders in Kyiv, as well as soldiers like Monka, view the army as a crucial security guarantee against Russia.
Technological Advancements Open Up New Opportunities
The use of drones has become a game-changer in modern warfare, and Ukrainian women are at the forefront of this development. Imla, a 27-year-old former professional hockey player, initially planned to become a combat paramedic but eventually switched to full-time drone work. She recalls her first drone flight, a reconnaissance mission, and how she overcame her initial nerves to build confidence and expertise. The Khartiia Corps has seen a 20% increase in women joining its ranks since 2024, with dozens of women taking on combat and technological roles.
The Ukrainian military has also started training officers and future commanders to work with mixed units, including people of different ages, genders, and backgrounds. This approach helps commanders become more effective leaders and promotes a culture of inclusivity. As Volodymyr Dehtyarov, the Khartiia Corps public affairs officer, notes, “The more technology we have, like drones, the more historically male professions open up.” The Dignitas Foundation, a charity organization supporting Ukraine, has also partnered with the Khartiia Corps to fund technological innovation and civic development projects.
Challenges and Opportunities for Women in the Military
Despite the progress made, women in the Ukrainian military still face obstacles and biases. Yaha, a 25-year-old soldier, initially faced resistance from commanders when she asked to attend drone courses and was instead suggested to replace the cook. However, she persevered and eventually became a bomber-drone pilot in the 9th Brigade. Chibi, a 20-year-old FPV technician, also faced sexism from soldiers who questioned her technical skills due to her gender. Nevertheless, she found support from a male colleague and is now an integral part of the Khartiia Brigade.
Olha Meloshyna, the spokesperson for Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, emphasizes that the belief that drone roles are safer is a misconception, as Russians actively hunt drone operators. The Unmanned Systems Forces have seen a significant increase in women moving into technological roles, including drone operation, repair, and electronic warfare. Meloshyna notes that 4.2% of the Unmanned Systems Forces are women, a number she considers significant given that women enlist voluntarily.
The Future of Women in the Ukrainian Military
The Ukrainian military is actively working to recruit more women, with a focus on technological roles. The Unmanned Systems Forces are conducting a media-focused recruitment campaign, aiming to recruit 15,000 people, including women. As Meloshyna states, “The Unmanned Systems Forces are a system, and it is made up of people — men and women. No drone is autonomous. It needs human involvement. And the more personnel we have, the more drones will fly toward Russia.” The Ukrainian military’s efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity are a step in the right direction, and it will be interesting to see how this trend develops in the future.
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Image Source: www.latimes.com
