BiH Armed Forces deploy additional helicopters to fight wildfires across BiH

Following a decision by the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and an order from the Minister of Defence, a helicopter from the Air Force and Air Defence Brigade of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH) has been actively engaged in fighting wildfires in the Konjic area since August 6.

Helicopter crews and equipment were first deployed on the afternoon of August 6, with operations continuing on August 7. The mission is among the most complex and demanding carried out by the AFBiH Air Force and Air Defence Brigade, particularly because of the difficult terrain and extremely challenging operating conditions. Thick smoke over the fire sites further complicates aerial firefighting operations and requires a high level of training, experience and coordination among helicopter crews.

Firefighting operations in the Konjic area are being carried out in close coordination with helicopters operated by the Zenica-Doboj Canton Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Interior of Republika Srpska.

Helicopter firefighting offers significant operational advantages, particularly precision and the ability to reach inaccessible terrain and operate close to the edges of fire zones.

Close coordination with firefighters on the ground is particularly important. Helicopters provide direct support to ground crews by dropping water on critical points and areas ahead of the fire line, helping slow the spread of the flames and improve efforts to contain the fires.

An AFBiH helicopter had previously been deployed to fight a wildfire in the Mile area near Jajce. However, after the fire spread toward an area suspected of containing landmines, further operations were suspended to protect the crew and aircraft. Due to the assessed risk, the decision was made to withdraw the helicopter from the Jajce fire, after which it was redeployed to the wildfire in the Konjic area.

An additional AFBiH helicopter was deployed yesterday afternoon, bringing the total number of Armed Forces helicopters operating at the Konjic wildfire to two.

At the same time, on the orders of the BiH Defense Minister, another AFBiH helicopter was deployed to fight a wildfire in the Bosansko Grahovo area, while 30 Armed Forces personnel were sent to the Nevesinje area to assist with ground firefighting operations.

By deploying additional resources, the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to support civilian authorities and residents in wildfire-affected areas, within their mandate, available capacities and established procedures.

The BiH Ministry of Defense said that, even under these exceptionally demanding conditions, members of the AFBiH Air Force and Air Defence Brigade are demonstrating a high level of training, professionalism and readiness to carry out their mission of supporting civilian authorities.

Helicopter crews continue to work tirelessly and carry out their tasks responsibly to mitigate the impact of wildfires and protect affected residents and property.

The Ministry also said that the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina would continue to support the relevant institutions and people affected by wildfires across the country, in line with needs and available resources.