Greek Canadair Aircraft Combat Portugal Wildfires

Two Greek Canadair CL-415 firefighting aircraft have been operating in the major wildfires in Portugal since yesterday. The aircraft, along with pilots from the Hellenic Air Force, arrived in Iberia yesterday at noon and immediately began firefighting operations.

The Canadair aircraft are operating in a difficult, rocky area, 60 miles north of Monte Real Airport, at an altitude of 7,000 feet, where there are four active fronts.

Greece responded to Portugal's request through the European Civil Protection Mechanism. In addition, 20 Greek forest commandos from EMODE are operating in the Genestoso, Asturias region of Spain.