Filenews 28 November 2025 - by Angelos Nikolaou
In a decisive move to strengthen aerial firefighting, the Ministry of Defense is oriented to request an extension of the stay of the two Air Tractor 802 firefighting aircraft from Jordan, until the first fortnight of December. A relevant request is expected to be submitted through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in view of the particularly high temperatures for the season and the prolonged dry conditions, the result of a three-year drought that maintains the risk of forest fires occurring and spreading at increased levels, even in winter.
As competent sources point out, the stay of the aircraft until mid-December ensures that the Republic of Cyprus will maintain a high level of operational readiness for as long as the increased risk of ignition continues.
The two aircraft have been operating since last March from Larnaca, being a continuation of the cooperation that was inaugurated last year. During their stay in Cyprus, they have assisted in critical operations, covering significant operational gaps and enhancing the readiness of the aerial firefighting forces.
Yesterday, the Minister of Agriculture of Jordan, Dr. Saeb Al-Khraisat, accompanied by the Director General, Andreas Grigoriou, visited the aircraft team and talked to the ground and air personnel, thanking them for their assistance in dealing with forest fires.
The extension of the stay of the Jordanian media is expected to be requested in the context of a memorandum of bilateral cooperation. As of April 1, 2025, the new Air Firefighting Unit is now operating under the National Guard, utilizing an integrated operating framework and strengthening coordination, training and response during the fire season.
For this year, 11 primary aircraft were secured, a number that reached 14 at the peak of the period, constituting the largest operational fleet the Republic of Cyprus has ever had. The qualitative upgrade is also evident: the total dropping capabilities now exceed 36 tons of water or other firefighting material, compared to 31 tons the previous year.
At the same time, reserve assets from the National Guard and the Police are supporting the operations, while two Jordanian helicopters are in a state of readiness in Jordan with a response time of six hours.
