Deputy Finance Minister Nikos Papathanasis announced on Monday that Greece will purchase a DHC-515 firefighting aircraft, also known as the new Canadair, as part of the “Civil Protection 2021-2027” initiative.
This 53.1 million-euro acquisition, partially funded by the European Regional Development Fund, will be overseen by the Climate Crisis Ministry.
The government highlights that the DHC-515 offers numerous benefits compared to the current fleet, including increased water-carrying capacity, extended flight durations, and advanced navigation systems.
Through a broader agreement with the EU and Canada, Greece is set to acquire a total of seven DHC-515 aircraft. Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias expressed, “For the first time in 50 years, Greece will strengthen its firefighting capabilities with seven new Canadair aircraft, in addition to 42 more aircraft and helicopters to effectively combat natural disasters.”