The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has continued aerial firefighting operations in Albania to support the country’s efforts to contain widespread wildfires. The mission, initiated under the directive of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was launched on August 11, 2025, following a request for assistance from the Albanian government. The UAE Rescue Team, consisting of specialized personnel and two Black Hawk helicopters, has been operating in fire-affected areas including Gramsh, Petrela, and nearby mountainous zones.
The helicopters are equipped with external tanks used for precision water drops over hard-to-reach fire locations, where conventional firefighting units have limited access due to rugged terrain and ongoing high temperatures. As of August 21, the team had completed 419 aerial water drops, releasing over 737,000 kilograms of water on active fire lines. The numbers represent a sharp increase from earlier phases of the operation, where 359 water drops had delivered approximately 700,000 kilograms.
Daily sorties continue to be launched based on coordination with Albanian emergency authorities, focusing on controlling the spread of wildfires threatening residential areas and agricultural land. The UAE’s operation includes continuous logistical support, technical assessment of fire behavior, and coordination with local civil protection agencies. Command meetings are held regularly to update strategy, allocate flight plans, and monitor extinguished areas for potential re-ignition.
UAE maintains aerial vigilance as fire hotspots persist
The UAE helicopters have operated multiple daily flights, depending on wind conditions, smoke density, and regional fire alerts. Albania is among several countries in southern Europe experiencing extensive wildfires in August, exacerbated by prolonged heatwaves and dry vegetation. According to Albanian authorities, the fires have caused the death of one person and led to injuries and mass evacuations in several municipalities. Nearly 2,000 residents have been displaced, with infrastructure and farmland reported among the damaged assets.
The UAE’s assistance is being conducted in coordination with Albanian disaster response teams. The aerial missions have supported containment in areas where wildfires were advancing towards inhabited zones. Local authorities have stated that the contribution has been instrumental in reducing fire intensity and in assisting ground crews to reach locations that were previously inaccessible. The firefighting operation remains active, with attention shifting to preventing flare-ups in previously controlled areas. Aerial surveillance continues alongside water drops, and the helicopters are stationed near operational zones to maintain rapid deployment capacity.
According to mission updates, weather forecasts are being closely monitored to adjust tactics and ensure sustained coverage. This operation is part of the UAE’s broader commitment to international emergency response and disaster relief. The deployment of advanced aerial resources and trained crews reflects the country’s technical capabilities and its established cooperation with governments requesting urgent support. No timeline has been given for the completion of the mission, which will continue as long as required by local authorities in Albania. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.