The commander of Russia’s Military Transport Aviation (MTA), Vladimir Benediktov, announced that the service has begun integrating its first female pilot teams into operational units. The disclosure was reported by TASS.
He noted that while he could not speak for every aviation branch, the women have learned the craft successfully within their program and are actively flying today.
According to reports, the female pilots completed their training at Krasnodar Higher Military Aviation School, named after Benediktov, known by its acronym KVVAUL. The information was carried by AK Serova.
Earlier, socialbites.ca highlighted four women who entered service with the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) in 2022. They included Anna Shcherbakova of Perm, Ekaterina Pchela from Engels (a site historically tied to the training of the famous Night Witches), Vladislav Grigorenko from Chelyabinsk, and Yulia Babich from Moscow. Their specializations spanned long-range, strike, and fighter aircraft roles.
There has been ongoing attention to the topic of women pilots in Russia, including discussions dating back to 2017 about military pilot training for women and the broader outlook for service in the air forces.
Statements from Russian leadership have consistently addressed the future of the armed forces, outlining a trajectory that emphasizes expanded participation of qualified personnel across branches.