BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In line with its commitment to improving national firefighting capabilities, the Algerian government has announced the acquisition of six light-type water bomber aircraft, with five set to be delivered by the end of April. The announcement was made by the Minister of the Interior, Brahim Merad, during the installation of the national commission responsible for forest protection for the year 2024, attended by Agriculture Minister Youcef Cherfa.
The procurement of these aircraft is part of the implementation of directives from the President of the Republic, aimed at bolstering efforts to combat forest fires. Minister Merad emphasized the proactive preparation for the 2024 forest fire prevention and firefighting campaign, involving all stakeholders, including civil society members, to develop an action plan with necessary measures and precautions.
The Minister stated that measures taken are in line with the President’s directives for the acquisition of six firefighting aircraft, each with a capacity of 3000 liters, benefiting Tassili Airlines. Delivery is expected by the end of April 2024 for five of the aircraft, with the sixth to be received by the end of the current year. The aircraft, identified as Air Tractor AT-802 models, will be stationed in Chlef, Béjaïa, and Annaba, with the potential for deployment to other provinces as needed.
Additionally, authorities announced the chartering of seven additional water bomber aircraft to reinforce firefighting efforts, to be made available to relevant authorities by early June. Minister Merad commended the National Gendarmerie Directorate for its consistent efforts in firefighting and announced its deployment of 22 helicopters for reconnaissance, surveillance, and evacuation missions to support firefighting efforts.
Efforts to enhance aerial interventions include the establishment of helicopter landing areas in ten provinces and the integration of locally manufactured drones into surveillance and prevention operations. These measures reflect the Algerian government’s commitment to strengthening national capacities in response to natural challenges, ensuring the safety and protection of citizens and the environment.
Previously, the Ministry of National Defense initiated efforts to acquire four Russian-made Beriev Be-200ES amphibious water bombers. However, delivery was delayed due to consequences of the crisis in Ukraine. Despite these challenges, one aircraft was delivered last year, alongside the chartering of six Air Tractor aircraft from the State of Chile, further demonstrating Algeria’s commitment to enhancing its firefighting capabilities.
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