Military aircraft to help tackle wildfires
Government invests millions in firefighting capabilities after summer of blazes including one which destroyed a large part of Dunwich Heath
Military planes and helicopters will soon be used to combat wildfires in the UK, with the government investing millions in firefighting capabilities.
This decision comes in response to extreme weather conditions seen last summer, including a significant wildfire in Dunwich Heath.
The RAF’s Chinook helicopters and A400M aircraft will be equipped with specialist firefighting equipment to fight fires in difficult-to-reach areas.
Alongside the aerial firefighting measures, the government is boosting firefighter safety with up to £45 million for wildfire-specific protective equipment and more specialist teams.
The investment is part of a broader strategy to make landscapes more resilient and prevent future wildfires.
This includes £25 million dedicated to restoring peatlands and supporting farmers in fireproofing their land.
The Prime Minister’s summit, taking place today, will focus on ensuring last summer's scenes are not repeated.
Local leaders, fire chiefs, and experts will discuss the next steps in tackling wildfires in the UK.
The initiative highlights the UK’s increasing climate challenges, with measures aiming to better equip emergency services and protect the public.
Additional efforts will involve collaboration with businesses such as Airbus and VodafoneThree on technology solutions like satellite monitoring and enhanced connectivity during emergencies.
This follows last month's Climate and Nature Security Taskforce meeting, focusing on climate risks facing the UK.