With a strategic purchase of Airbus’ H215 helicopters, Greece is stepping up its efforts to tackle climate crises and enhance its disaster response capabilities.
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A New Era in Aerial Response: Greece’s H215 Acquisition
In an ambitious move aimed at strengthening its crisis management capabilities, Greece has ordered eight H215 helicopters from Airbus Helicopters, with an option for two more. This acquisition is part of Greece’s larger national program, Aegis, which is managed by the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection. The H215, known for its impressive performance in emergency situations, will help Greece tackle natural disasters, including the growing threat of wildfires.
This purchase is not just about acquiring a fleet of helicopters; it’s a strategic effort to improve operational efficiency and readiness. European funding has been provided to finance the deal, and the management structure of the program follows a GO-CO (government-owned, contractor-operated) model. This means the Greek government will own the helicopters, but their technical operation will be handled by specialized contractors, such as Airtelis and SAF Hélicoptères, both of which have deep experience in high-risk rescue operations.
The H215: A Helicopter Built for Crisis Response
The H215 is part of the Super Puma family, and its reputation for reliability and power precedes it. With over 1,100 units already delivered worldwide, this helicopter has racked up more than 6 million flight hours, proving its value time and time again. Greece’s decision to incorporate the H215 is a clear response to the country’s increasing vulnerability to wildfires, as well as its need for a versatile tool capable of rapid deployment.
Equipped to carry up to 19 firefighters and capable of dropping over 4 tons of water, the H215 is a perfect fit for the Greek firefighting missions. The aircraft can be configured with a Bambi bucket or an integrated belly tank for water drops, making it adaptable to various firefighting scenarios. Not only can the H215 operate in extreme conditions, but it can do so day or night, thanks to its advanced navigation system.
What sets the H215 apart is its exceptional range—at 540 nautical miles (about 1,000 km)—and its ability to remain in the air for more than two hours without needing to refuel. This gives Greece the capability to quickly respond to multiple wildfire fronts in difficult-to-reach, rugged terrain.
Tried and Tested Partners: SAF Hélicoptères and Airtelis
This isn’t Greece’s first time working with Airbus Helicopters. The country already operates Super Puma helicopters within its firefighting brigade and air force. With this new order, Greece aims to standardize its fleet and streamline maintenance and training efforts. The familiarity with the Super Puma ecosystem is a huge benefit, ensuring quick repairs and easier availability of spare parts.
SAF Hélicoptères and Airtelis are pivotal to the operation of these helicopters. Both companies have extensive experience in complex missions such as mountain rescues, firefighting, and humanitarian operations. SAF Hélicoptères even deployed a H215 in 2024 under the European RescEU initiative in Greece. Airtelis, with its 60 years of experience in emergency services and line maintenance, is well-suited to manage the technical demands of this new acquisition.
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Responding to Climate Change: A Practical Solution
The decision to acquire the H215 is not just a logistical one; it’s a direct response to climate change and the increasingly frequent and intense wildfires that ravage Greece during the summer months. Over the past few years, wildfires have become more destructive, threatening ecosystems and human lives. With the H215 in its fleet, Greece can now respond more swiftly and efficiently to these growing threats.
The GO-CO model further enhances Greece’s ability to rapidly deploy the helicopters without getting bogged down by bureaucratic delays. This flexible arrangement ensures that the helicopters are always ready to be mobilized in times of need.
Long-Term Benefits: Strengthening Greece’s Aviation and Workforce
In addition to enhancing Greece’s disaster response capabilities, this acquisition brings economic benefits. The purchase includes training for local pilots and technicians, which will strengthen Greece’s strategic autonomy in handling aerial operations. As the country’s workforce gains experience, Greece will become more self-sufficient in maintaining and operating the H215s, reducing reliance on foreign operators.
Moreover, the establishment of new maintenance centers around the Super Puma helicopters will create new jobs and stimulate the local economy. As Airbus Helicopters continues its long-term relationship with Greece, it is committed to offering ongoing support and building local capabilities.
A Bold Step Towards a Greener Future
The H215’s introduction into Greece’s fleet is a strategic move to combat the environmental threats posed by climate change, specifically wildfires. In the coming years, as the global focus on green technologies and climate resilience intensifies, Greece’s proactive approach will serve as a model for other nations facing similar challenges. The acquisition of these helicopters strengthens Greece’s preparedness and resilience, allowing it to respond swiftly to the most pressing environmental threats.
This ambitious investment in advanced technology and air rescue capabilities will not only help save lives but also enhance Greece’s standing as a leader in climate crisis response. By working alongside experienced operators like SAF Hélicoptères and Airtelis, Greece is setting a strong example of collaboration and innovation in tackling environmental challenges.