LONDON, United Kingdom — RAF A400M aircraft and Chinook helicopters are to receive specialist equipment for fighting wildfires, giving civilian crews additional support in remote and difficult terrain.
The government announced the plan on 22 October. It is a capability to be developed, rather than confirmation that the aircraft are already operating in their new firefighting role.
A different mission
Military transport aircraft and heavy-lift helicopters would help reach moorland, steep hillsides and other areas where access on the ground is difficult. Civilian services can request military assistance through the existing Military Aid to the Civil Authorities process.
The announcement also includes specialist wildfire teams and lighter protective clothing for firefighters in England. Up to £45 million backs those measures; that figure is not a stated budget for converting the aircraft.
A new wildfire AI unit and work on improved forecasts form part of the wider package. The announcement does not give a date when the aircraft capability will become operational.