Russia Deploys Il-76 Firefighting Aircraft to Serbia to Help Combat Wildfires

Dragon Media News Desk

Russia has deployed a specially equipped Il-76 aircraft to Serbia to assist efforts to contain wildfires spreading across parts of the country.

The aircraft, carrying a crew and an operational team from Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations, was sent on the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin. It arrived at Niš Airport in Serbia on Wednesday evening.

According to the Russian side, Serbia requested assistance after the wildfire situation deteriorated and the threat to populated areas and infrastructure increased.

The Il-76 is equipped with specialized aerial firefighting systems capable of dropping large quantities of water over extensive fire zones. The Russian team is expected to work in coordination with the relevant Serbian authorities to contain the fires, protect communities and prevent flames from spreading to critical infrastructure.

Wildfires in several parts of Serbia have created risks for local communities and infrastructure, prompting efforts involving both ground and aerial firefighting resources. The arrival of the Russian aircraft adds additional capacity to the ongoing response.

The Russian aircraft travelled to Serbia through Bulgarian airspace. Bulgarian authorities allowed the humanitarian flight following a formal diplomatic request from Serbia related to the firefighting operation.

Russia and Serbia have previously cooperated in emergency response and humanitarian assistance. The latest deployment represents a continuation of bilateral cooperation in responding to natural disasters and other emergency situations.