Breaking the Siege: How Mi-8 Helicopters Made Their First Daring Flight to Mariupol’s Azovstal Plant.

Ukrainian Troops’ First Helicopter Mission Into Besieged Mariupol

According to Novyny.live: On March 21, 2022, the first helicopter flight into encircled Mariupol took place, involving Maksym Zhorin, deputy commander of the Third Army Corps. The operation aimed to deliver weapons, medical supplies, and reinforcements to the Azovstal plant, while evacuating critically wounded soldiers. Mi-8 helicopters carried out this mission, bringing ammunition, medicine, and personnel to the embattled steelworks.

To evade enemy anti-aircraft fire, pilots flew at extremely low altitudes throughout the journey. This mission marked a critical milestone in sustaining Mariupol’s defenses and supporting Ukrainian troops on the front line. Initiated by Andriy Biletsky, the operation underscored its strategic significance within the broader context of the war.

Firsthand Accounts from Participants

Roman, call sign 'Flint,' took part in the aviation breakthrough to Mariupol, highlighting the determination and courage of Ukrainian forces.

“The main criterion for joining the operation was a soldier’s willingness. There was no precise protocol at the time, because this was the first mission, the first flight,” Roman 'Flint' recalled.

Maksym Zhorin also praised the fighters involved in this bold endeavor:

“I am proud of the soldiers from what was then the Azov Special Operations Forces unit—now the Third Army Corps—who were eager to fly into Mariupol, fully aware that it was a one-way ticket.”

Ultimately, the first helicopter flight into besieged Mariupol stands as a landmark event in the history of Ukraine’s armed forces, showcasing the bravery and valor of fighters on the front line.

This mission highlights both the strategic importance of supporting Ukrainian troops under extreme conditions and the high level of preparedness and resolve among Ukrainian forces. The pilots and soldiers who took part demonstrated unwavering commitment, a key factor in maintaining army morale during prolonged combat. The lessons learned from this flight may also serve as a blueprint for future operations.