The EU organizes firefighting teams and aircraft fleet for countries at risk, such as Greece

The European Union is gearing up for heightened wildfire risks this summer. The European Commission announced today that firefighting teams and aircraft have already been deployed to assist countries anticipated to face wildfires again this year.

Specifically, during July and August, nearly 650 firefighters from 14 EU nations will be strategically positioned in high-risk regions in France, Greece, Portugal, and Spain.

Additionally, 22 firefighting aircraft and 4 helicopters will be stationed across 10 member states to respond as needed. These resources, coordinated and co-financed through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, aim to reduce risks and enhance crisis response efficiency, complementing national capabilities.

Details include:

• Greece: four medium amphibious aircraft
• Cyprus: two light aircraft
• France: four medium amphibious aircraft and one helicopter
• Croatia, Italy, and Spain: each receiving two medium amphibious aircraft
• Sweden: four light aircraft
• Portugal: two light aircraft
• Czechia: two helicopters
• Slovakia: one helicopter

Moreover, 19 ground firefighting teams, each consisting of approximately 30 firefighters, along with one expert team, are prepared for deployment by the EU in collaboration with member states and participating countries through the Mechanism.

A dedicated wildfire support team will operate at the EU Emergency Response Coordination Centre, available 24/7 to monitor risks and analyze scientific data.

“This proactive strategy underscores the EU’s commitment to anticipate disasters—especially those exacerbated by climate change—and to unite resources in safeguarding lives, homes, and the environment,” emphasized the Commission.

It is also highlighted that any nation globally affected by wildfires can seek aid through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). Once activated, the EU Emergency Response Coordination Centre coordinates and co-finances assistance, which is voluntarily provided by EU member states and ten additional participating countries: Iceland, Norway, Serbia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine.

In emergencies needing extra rescue support, the EU’s strategic reserve, rescEU, can be activated to supply additional resources for managing disasters in Europe.