Jordan recently stationed two helicopters in Cyprus to assist the Mediterranean island in combating potential forest fires until they can lease their own firefighting aircraft for the upcoming summer fire season. The Cypriot government views firefighting and prevention as a national security matter and is moving to purchase 10 aircraft to bolster their firefighting capabilities. The deployment of the Royal Jordanian Air Force technical staff, crew, and pilots will assist in aerial firefighting efforts, with the Cypriot government covering the expenses of the mission. The Jordanian crews will undergo training to adapt to local conditions and become operationally ready in the coming days.
In addition to the two helicopters from Jordan, Cyprus will utilize at least three other aircraft from their police force and National Guard, including a helicopter from two military bases maintained by Britain on the island. This fleet of aircraft will be on round-the-clock call to respond to any potential fires. The deployment of the Jordanian helicopters comes after a proposal from Cyprus to establish a regional firefighting hub on the island, from which aircraft and other technology could be dispatched to neighboring countries in need of assistance. Jordan’s King Abdullah II had previously offered to station firefighting aircraft in Cyprus during the summer fire season, showing the strong partnership between Cyprus, Greece, Jordan, and Israel in assisting each other in combating wildfires.
The collaboration between Cyprus, Greece, Jordan, and Israel in firefighting efforts has been ongoing in recent years, with teams, gear, and aircraft being sent to assist neighboring countries in combatting wildfires. This partnership highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing the growing threat of wildfires, particularly in regions prone to high temperatures and dry conditions during the summer months. By stationing helicopters in Cyprus and working together to combat potential fires, these countries are taking proactive measures to protect their natural landscapes and communities from the devastating impact of wildfires.
The arrival of the 18 Royal Jordanian Air Force technical staff, crew, and pilots in Cyprus demonstrates the commitment to enhancing firefighting capabilities in the region and preparing for the upcoming fire season. With the training of the Jordanian crews to adapt to local conditions, they will be able to effectively respond to any potential fires in Cyprus and provide valuable support to ongoing firefighting efforts. The establishment of a regional firefighting hub on the island shows the forward-thinking approach of Cyprus in coordinating resources and technology to address the threat of wildfires not only within their borders but also in neighboring countries.
The decision to station helicopters in Cyprus and establish a regional firefighting hub reflects the proactive measures being taken by Cyprus to enhance their firefighting capabilities and address the growing threat of wildfires in the region. By purchasing additional aircraft and collaborating with international partners such as Jordan, Cyprus is strengthening their ability to respond to potential fires and protect their natural environment. The Jordanian deployment, as well as the ongoing cooperation between Cyprus, Greece, Jordan, and Israel, highlights the importance of mutual assistance and solidarity in facing the challenges posed by wildfires, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to protect lives, property, and the environment.
