Based on the Decision of the Government of the Republic of Croatia on providing humanitarian aid abroad, a firefighting aircraft of the Croatian Air Force (HRZ) was deployed on Wednesday, July 23rd, to Albania to assist in extinguishing large wildfires raging across the country.
The Canadair CL-415, part of the 855th Firefighting Squadron of the 93rd Wing of the Croatian Air Force, took off from the “Colonel Mirko Vukušić” barracks in Zemunik at around noon, tasked with supporting efforts to combat the blaze. The aircraft is crewed by three members – a pilot, co-pilot, and flight technician – all experienced and trained for demanding international firefighting missions.
The decision to deploy the aircraft was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić, by his authority and as part of a coordinated response by Croatian authorities to the region’s humanitarian needs.
The Canadair crew relies on extensive experience gained in numerous domestic and international operations, including similar missions in Greece, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Turkey. Their expertise and efficiency will once again be crucial in supporting Albanian firefighters and authorities in containing the fires that threaten human lives, property, and the natural environment.
