The First Female Fighter Ace

When most nations barred women from combat roles, the Soviet Union broke the mold. By 1941, with the German invasion threatening the nation’s survival, famed aviator Marina Raskova convinced Stalin to form all-female air regiments. Among those who answered the call was Lydia “Lilia” Litvyak — a young woman who would become the highest-scoring female fighter ace in history.

From Flying Clubs to the Front

Litvyak had begun flying in her teens. By the time she volunteered for combat, she already had years of experience in the cockpit. Selected to join Raskova’s all-women fighter regiment, Litvyak quickly proved herself. Her natural skill and fearlessness in the air marked her as exceptional.

Facing the Luftwaffe

By 1942, the Luftwaffe was still one of the most formidable air forces in the world. Litvyak entered combat during the Battle of Stalingrad, a turning point of the war. In a matter of weeks, she not only held her own but became an ace — scoring five aerial victories. She was later transferred to a frontline mixed-gender unit, where she earned the respect of her male counterparts through sheer ability.

A Rising Ace

Litvyak’s tally grew to at least 12 confirmed kills, possibly as many as 18. She was wounded several times but refused to stay grounded, returning to combat even before her injuries had healed. Her courage and skill made her a national heroine, with her face appearing in Soviet newspapers.

Final Mission and Legacy

On August 1, 1943, just weeks before her 22nd birthday, Litvyak was shot down over eastern Ukraine and never returned. Her body remained missing until 1979, and it wasn’t until 1990 that she was finally awarded the title Hero of the Soviet Union.

Lydia Litvyak’s story is more than that of a gifted pilot — it’s a reminder of the thousands of Soviet women who fought and died in combat. She stood out as the “White Rose of Stalingrad,” but she also symbolized a generation that proved courage and skill know no gender.