Major Mariam al-Mansouri is the United Arab Emirates' first female pilot to fly an F-16 fighter jet.
And recently she's become something of an international celebrity...
...after it was reported she was leading air strikes against Islamic State militants in Iraq.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) MAJOR MARIAM AL-MANSOURI, SAYING:
"In the beginning I wasn't expecting to reach this level, but with thanks to God, I have managed to make this dream come true -- with the support of the authorities, trainers and with encouragement from my colleagues."
The 35-year-old, who graduated from flight school in 2008, says she's honored to serve her country.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) MAJOR MARIAM AL-MANSOURI, SAYING:
"Both men and women have the right to work in any field, as long as they do it with loyalty, determination, persistence and educate themselves with practical and scientific tools in order to reach the highest ranks."
The United Arab Emirates' air strikes agai
