Rise in Ukrainian Female Soldiers Reaches 70,000, Driven by Drone Warfare Advancements

The Ukrainian armed forces now include over 70,000 women, a notable 20% rise since 2022. This increase is attributed to advancements in battlefield technology, particularly the use of drones, which have created new combat and technical opportunities for women.

Military officials in Ukraine report that more than 5,500 women are currently stationed on the front lines. This development represents a significant change, largely spurred by the swift adoption of drone technology in warfare.

This rise in female military personnel occurs amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, which has resulted in substantial casualties. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously estimated that approximately 45,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed, with nearly 390,000 wounded since the large-scale invasion began in 2022.

Technology Expands Opportunities

The role of drones has been pivotal in allowing women to engage in combat roles without needing to be physically present on the front lines. Monka, a 26-year-old drone pilot with the Third Army Corps, highlighted how modern systems have changed battlefield roles.

“Technology lets us deliver ammunition without carrying it in our hands or running to the front line — that’s incredible,” she told The New York Post. Monka left her position in restaurant management overseas to return to Ukraine and join the military.

Yaha, a 25-year-old drone pilot in the 9th Brigade, also shared her initial hesitations about enrolling in drone courses.

“I liked that you could strike the enemy remotely. I thought this was our future,” she said, noting that despite technological advances, war remains “pain, suffering and loss.”

Women Transitioning From Support to Combat Roles

Imla, a 27-year-old former professional hockey player, started as a combat medic before transitioning to drone reconnaissance. She described her initial missions as emotionally intense:

“I even wanted to cry at some moments. But with experience, you start feeling confident,” she told ABC News.

Recruitment Drives Boost Female Participation

Units like the Khartiia Corps have initiated recruitment campaigns focused on women, resulting in a 20% increase in female soldiers since 2024.

“In recent months, dozens of women have joined us in combat roles and are working successfully,” said Khartiia public affairs officer Volodymyr Dehtyarov. “The more technology we have, the more historically male professions open up.”

Ukraine has also launched a nationwide media campaign to recruit 15,000 personnel, including women, for both combat and non-combat roles, as the war continues to transform the nation’s military structure.