Marko Barišić: Croatian Canadair pilots are aiding Israel in extinguishing a severe wildfire near Jerusalem. They are deploying 11 specialists to combat the emergency. Renowned for low-altitude precision, Croatia’s crews previously assisted Israel in 2010 and 2016. With EU-funded Canadairs arriving in 2028, Croatia reinforces its role in Mediterranean wildfire response and international crisis cooperation.
Evacuations as fire breaks out
A large fire broke out on the outskirts of Jerusalem. This prompted partial evacuations of residents from threatened neighbourhoods. It also threatened the closure of a major highway connecting the area to Tel Aviv.
Israeli authorities deployed military forces to the scene due to the severity of the situation. However, Croatian Canadair aircraft were needed after assessing they could not handle it alone. This led to the request for international assistance.
Croatia’s swift response
Croatia, along with several other countries, promptly answered the call. On Wednesday, Defence Minister Ivan Anušić approved the deployment of a Canadair aircraft from the Croatian Air Force. It was accompanied by two crews.
In total, 11 members of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia will assist Israel, the Ministry of Defence confirmed. The team includes not only pilots but also mechanics and a mission commander.
Past international firefighting efforts
Croatia regularly responds to international calls for wildfire support. Its Canadairs frequently operate in Greece. They aided Slovenia a few years ago and have also been dispatched to Italy to support with their Croatian Canadair aircraft.
Previous missions in Israel
This is not Croatia’s first intervention in Israel. A single Canadair was sent in 2010, while two aircraft helped extinguish a major blaze in central and northern Israel in late 2016.
Intense efforts to save Haifa
During the 2016 mission, Croatian crews logged 13 hours in the air on the first day (25 November). They were battling fires near Haifa. Croatian Canadair involvement was crucial. After four days of relentless efforts, supported by international teams, the fire was contained and eventually extinguished.
Gratitude from Israeli leadership
Then-Israeli President Reuven Rivlin thanked all Croatian personnel and other international responders: “You have shown what true and sincere friendship is. Until now, you were heroes in your own countries—today, you are heroes in ours.”
Israelis later released a video tribute praising the courage and skill of Croatian pilots. They flew their Canadairs perilously low over flames to maximise water drop effectiveness.
Effectiveness of Croatian pilots
Croatian crews are highly respected for their expertise in combating wildfires, honed along the country’s long coastline—particularly during extreme heatwaves. This experience is brilliantly showcased by the efforts of the Croatian Canadair fleet.
Challenges with larger aircraft
While larger aircraft like the Romanian Spartan carry more water, they must fly higher, often missing targets. They also require coordinated airspace clearance to avoid populated areas.
Advantages of Canadair operations
In contrast, Croatian Canadairs are smaller and collect less water. Yet, they fly daringly close to fires, sometimes skimming rooftops for precision. Their agility makes them exceptionally effective for such operations.
EU funding for new aircraft
Croatia currently operates six Canadairs. Two years ago, the European Union funded the purchase of 12 new aircraft—primarily for Mediterranean nations prone to catastrophic fires—with Croatia set to receive two at no cost.
Each upgraded Canadair, now technically advanced, costs €52 million (excluding taxes). The new aircraft are expected to arrive in Croatia by early 2028.
