UK to Equip Military Aircraft for Wildfire Response

The UK government said RAF Chinook helicopters and A400M aircraft will receive specialist firefighting equipment to support wildfire crews when requested across the country, including in remote and difficult terrain. The package includes up to £45 million for additional specialist wildfire teams and lightweight protective equipment for frontline firefighters in England. A further £25 million will support restoration of dried-out peatlands in England to help retain water and create natural firebreaks. A new Wildfires AI Unit in COBR’s National Situation Centre will bring together universities, technology firms and government, alongside closer Met Office forecasting work and England’s first Wildfire Action Plan.