Another joint training exercise focused on evaluating the coordination between aerial and ground firefighting units during wildfire suppression operations was conducted near the Asprokremmos Reservoir in Cyprus.
Four UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters were deployed for the exercise. Two aircraft were equipped with Helitak aerial firefighting tanks, while the remaining two operated with externally suspended Bambi Buckets. Throughout the exercise, water was replenished exclusively from portable water tanks, enabling the simulation of various operational scenarios and allowing crews to demonstrate their readiness for the conditions they may encounter during real-world firefighting missions.
Our helicopter crews once again demonstrated a high level of operational readiness, professionalism, and the ability to respond effectively to rapidly changing conditions during aerial firefighting operations. The exercise also confirmed the excellent level of coordination not only among our own flight crews but also with the other emergency response agencies participating in the training.
As the wildfire season in Cyprus is already underway and our helicopters are currently deployed in the country on active firefighting standby, exercises of this nature represent an essential part of maintaining a high level of operational preparedness. They also strengthen cooperation between all participating organizations, which is crucial for ensuring an effective and coordinated response during actual wildfire incidents.
