EASTERN UKRAINE (Reuters) – Ukrainian military helicopter pilot Oleh, 22, flies at low altitudes over fields and woods to track and destroy Russian invaders. Despite the risks, he continues his missions, establishing and hunting down enemy positions.
Oleh admits that his most frightening flight was when he had to land in a field four times due to missiles and guided bombs launched at his helicopter. However, he felt a great sense of satisfaction when the target was destroyed.
During his missions, Oleh carefully maneuvers his Soviet-designed Mi-8 aircraft through wooded areas and opens fire barely clearing trees. He mostly targets infantry, but also attacks reinforced positions and vehicles.
When singling out a target, Oleh performs a “hill” maneuver by adjusting to the right or left, staying low, gradually gaining altitude, launching missiles, and then turning away and descending.
Ukraine has received weapons deliveries from the United States and its allies to support its counteroffensive in the east and south of the country. Most of the helicopters used by Ukraine are Soviet models, some of which were provided by the United States and countries like the Czech Republic.
Due to enemy anti-aircraft defenses, helicopter pilots like Oleh must fly at low altitudes. They try to approach targets from a low vantage point, but sometimes the enemy air defense detects them. Additionally, they need to be cautious of hitting poles and power lines.
Oleh dreams of flying a U.S. aircraft like the Black Hawk, which is newer, more powerful, and equipped with better weapons.
(Writing by Ron Popeski; Editing by Alison Williams)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
