German forces have invaded Lily Litvyak's homeland, destroying and plundering everything in their path.

Seeking to volunteer her exceptional skills in piloting, Lily is desperate to aid the war effort and keep the intruders far away from her mother and younger brother.

Despite her years of flying experience, Lily is forced to confront the prejudice of a society that refuses to allow women to fight. Through persistence, and aided by a multitude of women selflessly volunteering to fight, Lily is permitted the opportunity to fly in the Soviet Air Force in the newly created female regiments.

Lily, and the other women who joined the regiments with her, swiftly learn that they are fighting the war on two fronts. They must face the onslaught of German bullets while also wrestling with a bigotry that seeks to undermine their success.

Regardless, the women, especially Lily, soon establish a name for themselves that is whispered in terror among the German ranks.