The Austrian Armed Forces are responding to the outbreak of forest fires in the steep mountain region around Semriach in Styria with a quick and decisive assistance mission. Military helicopters have been in use since Friday, December 27, 2024, to support the civilian emergency services on site in fighting the flames. This mission once again underlines the indispensable role of the Austrian Armed Forces in dealing with crisis situations at home.
After the forest fires broke out on Thursday evening, the local fire departments immediately alerted the Federal Army to deal with the challenge of the steep and difficult-to-access terrain. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasized the importance of cooperation between civilian and military forces: "The Federal Army is always ready when it is needed. Our trained pilots, together with the civilian forces on site, help to fight the flames as quickly as possible."
The two helicopters used, a Black Hawk S-70 and an Agusta Bell 212, are ideally suited for such operations. With their robust technology, high load capacities and the ability to operate in difficult terrain, they make a significant contribution to firefighting.
High-tech from the air: The helicopters in detail
The S-70 Black Hawk is the workhorse of the operation. As a multi-purpose helicopter with two powerful engines, each delivering 1.940 hp, it is particularly suitable for high mountain operations. Its de-icing system enables flights even in difficult winter conditions, while the maximum external load for extinguishing water of 4.000 kilograms enables effective firefighting. With a cruising speed of 280 km/h and a range of 500 kilometers, it is both fast and flexible to use.
The operation is complemented by the Agusta Bell 212, a medium-sized transport helicopter. Thanks to its versatility - for example, a cable winch and an external load hook - it is also ideal for operations in difficult terrain. With an external load of 1.000 kilograms and a range of 420 kilometers, it reliably supports the fire brigades with water supplies and logistical support.
Critical situation in Styria
The forest fires in the Semriach region pose major challenges for the emergency services. The steep terrain and winter conditions not only make the work of the fire brigade more difficult, but also require the precise use of extinguishing water from the air. The support of the Federal Army is essential here, as they can fight the fire from a bird's eye view and thus relieve the ground forces.
The close cooperation between civilian and military forces has proven to be a decisive factor in the successful containment of the flames. The rapid mobilization of the helicopter fleet and the high level of operational readiness of the pilots are making a significant contribution to preventing the spread of the fires and protecting the affected region.
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