Cyprus expands firefighting defence with aircraft and AI warning systems
Cyprus will deploy 13 firefighting aircraft and AI-based smoke detection systems covering 80% of uninhabited areas, alongside a nationwide SMS alert network, to combat its annual wildfire threat, with human activity causing over 90% of incidents. The €800,000 program, announced by Fire Brigade Chief Nikos Logginos, also integrates volunteer groups and aims to eliminate illegal rubbish dumps contributing to fire risks.
Cyprus is enhancing its wildfire defenses this summer with 13 new firefighting aircraft and advanced AI detection systems, according to Fire Brigade Chief Nikos Logginos. The AI systems, already operational in four pilot locations, can identify smoke sources as small as one square meter and cover 80% of uninhabited government-controlled areas, with plans to expand to industrial zones pending budget approval. The initiative also includes a nationwide SMS alert network through the CY alert platform, set to launch in June, providing residents with evacuation instructions. Logginos emphasized that human activity causes over 90% of the island’s 5,000 annual fires, stressing prevention and early intervention as critical priorities. To address fire hazards, authorities have ordered community leaders to clear firebreaks and remove dry vegetation, while funding has been allocated to eliminate 850 identified illegal rubbish dumps. The fire brigade and forestry department have maintained aircraft readiness since April, with ground units on constant standby for rapid response. Volunteer firefighting groups have been formally integrated into operations, and 60 additional hourly firefighters have been recruited to bolster rural coverage. Logginos acknowledged vulnerabilities but affirmed that the strategy focuses on extinguishing fires before they escalate, with continuous improvements planned. The total cost of the AI detection program is estimated at €800,000, with wider expansion dependent on finance ministry approval. The measures follow a review of last year’s wildfire operations, chaired by President Nikos Christodoulides, to strengthen coordination and prevention efforts ahead of the summer season.
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