Description: (Fighter pilot)
Yekaterina Vasilyevna Budanova, also known as Katya, was a skilled fighter pilot in the Soviet Air Force during World War II. She was credited with multiple aerial victories and is recognized as one of the top female fighter aces in the world, alongside Lydia Litvyak. Budanova's bravery and expertise in combat earned her a distinguished reputation. Tragically, her career was cut short when she was shot down by a Luftwaffe ace. Despite her untimely end, Budanova's contributions to the war effort and her legacy as a pioneering female aviator are remembered and celebrated.