The “IKAROS 2020” operational readiness exercise took place today at the training ground of the Department of Forests (“PROFALI” Forest) near the Kosi army camp.

The specific objectives of the exercise were:

• The implementation of IKAROS 1 and IKAROS 2 firefighting plans.
• The coordination of aerial firefighting means within the Fire Traffic Area.
• The implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• The control and use of common language and language barriers.
• The understanding of the concept of coordination in case of fire.
• The communication control among aerial means.
• The identification of any misconceptions or difficulties during firefighting operations by participants.
• The readiness and fast procedures for aircraft take-off.
• The familiarity with a common but very limited environment within the Fire Traffic Area.
• The meeting of the services involved and the expression of their concerns and expectations.
• The aviation restrictions and risk assessment management in firefighting missions.

The following services participated in the exercise: the Department of Forests, Fire Service, Police, Air Operations Unit, National Guard, British Military Bases, Civil Defence, Civil Aviation Department, Department of Meteorology and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 Also read: Two new firefighting aircraft in the service of the Department of Forests | Prospects for the establishment of a firefighting aircraft base