New-Generation Ukraine Woman Warriors Avenge Losses Of Loved Ones

Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces have also fielded all-female strike units, including the“Harpies,” which recently received a customized Vampire bomber drone developed specifically for women operators.

Didenko is part of that shift, one that is increasingly visible at the front. She joined the army in 2024 after two years of volunteering and self-reproach.“For two years I blamed myself for doing too little,” she said.“I knew I could do more. Becoming part of the armed forces felt like a second wind.”

Her path to the front began well before she put on a uniform. As a teenager, she was drawn to military history, tactics, and training. While still in school, she helped found a civic organization in her hometown of Bila Tserkva that focused on patriotic education for young people.

Everything changed on February 24, 2022. That morning, the organization's leaders were mobilized almost immediately. They asked Didenko, then 17, to take over.“So. at 17, I became the head of a civic organization,” she said.

Under her leadership, the group raised money for the military, organized training sessions, ran first-aid courses and supported units at the front. Today, nearly all of its members are serving in the armed forces. Some were wounded and discharged and now train younger recruits.

“My convictions, my principles, and my love for Ukraine left me no other choice,” she said.“I should have mobilized earlier than 2024.” Didenko now serves as a reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operator. Her job is to prepare the drone and equipment, study routes, plan missions, guide the aircraft into reconnaissance zones, complete the task,and bring the drone back safely.

It is technical work, but also risky. And for women, she said, it comes with additional challenges.“Armor and clothing don't take female anatomy into account,” she said.“Honestly, they don't really take male anatomy into account, either.”

She bought most of her gear herself or relied on female volunteers who specialize in equipping women soldiers.“I am incredibly grateful to them,” she said.“It's important that women support one another.”

Ukrainian servicewomen were previously issued uniforms and body armor designed for men, a mismatch that many said affected mobility and safety. Ukraine's military plans to begin issuing female-specific body armor this year, following the approval of interim anatomical padding and women's underwear, as part of efforts to adapt standard equipment to female soldiers while maintaining protection standards.

Until recently, Didenko was the youngest in her unit. Her fellow soldiers adapted quickly, she said, becoming“like older brothers.” Younger servicemen tended to accept her more easily. Older ones sometimes saw her as a daughter.