Cyprus enhances wildfire preparedness with new EU hub and aerial assets

Cyprus has announced full operational readiness for the 2026 wildfire season, supported by a significant expansion of firefighting resources. The European Commission is establishing a new Regional Aerial Firefighting Station in Cyprus, which will eventually host six aircraft for regional operations, training, and exercises. Currently, two RescEU light firefighting aircraft are already stationed at the hub and will be operational from June 15 to October 31. These are in addition to four other light aircraft funded by existing EU programs. As part of a broader EU initiative, 15 European firefighters will be pre-deployed to Cyprus for the first time, joining a total of 787 personnel stationed across six high-risk countries. National Fire Chief Nikos Longinos stated that local preparations include the installation of surveillance cameras, forest clearing, and the reinforcement of rural fire stations. Authorities emphasized that the island faces extreme fire conditions, including low humidity and high winds, necessitating strict public vigilance.