KHARKIV, Ukraine — The evolution of modern warfare technology has created unprecedented combat opportunities for women in Ukraine’s military forces. What began as limited frontline roles for female soldiers has transformed dramatically since Russia’s full-scale invasion nearly four years ago.
This technological revolution is exemplified by soldiers like the 26-year-old known by her call sign ‘Monka,’ who abandoned her restaurant management career abroad to return home and serve. She now operates as a first-person view (FPV) drone pilot in the Unmanned Systems Battalion of Ukraine’s Third Army Corps.
Military officials confirm this represents a significant trend: technological advancements in warfare have enabled more women to assume combat positions previously dominated by men. Defense Ministry statistics reveal over 70,000 women served in Ukraine’s military in 2025—a striking 20% increase from 2022 figures—with more than 5,500 deployed directly on front lines.
The proliferation of drone technology has been particularly transformative. Remote warfare capabilities have created combat roles that don’t require physical strength as a primary qualification, instead prioritizing technical aptitude, precision, and strategic thinking.
Several military units have launched targeted recruitment campaigns toward women through partnerships with organizations like the Dignitas Foundation. The Khartiia Corps reports a 20% increase in female recruits since 2024, with dozens successfully integrating into combat technological roles.
Despite progress, challenges persist within Ukraine’s traditionally conservative military structure. Some female soldiers report encountering prejudice and being steered toward support roles instead of combat positions. A 25-year-old soldier identified as Yaha described being initially directed to kitchen duty when she requested drone training.
Yet determination prevails. Women like 20-year-old Chibi, an FPV technician with brightly colored hair, overcome skepticism through technical excellence. Working from damp basements near front lines, she prepares drones for battlefield deployment despite initial doubts about her capabilities.
Olha Meloshyna, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, emphasizes that drone operations remain highly dangerous, as Russian forces actively target operators. Currently, women constitute 4.2% of this specialized force—a significant proportion given their voluntary enlistment.
The military’s ongoing recruitment campaign aims to bring 15,000 new personnel into drone-related roles, with women actively encouraged to apply. As Meloshyna notes: ‘No drone is autonomous. It needs human involvement. And the more personnel we have, the more drones will fly toward Russia.’