First Canadair 515 firefighting aircraft for Greece under construction in Canada

The first Canadair 515 aircraft destined for Greece is currently under construction in Canada, with initial images of the assembly process released to the public. This advanced firefighting plane is slated for delivery by 2028, promising a substantial upgrade to Greece's ability to combat devastating wildfires.

A key advantage of the Canadair 515 is its capacity for night operations, a capability lacking in most current aerial firefighting assets due to visibility limitations. This allows the aircraft to continue its crucial work extinguishing fires even after dark, providing vital support to ground crews who often battle flames alone during nighttime hours.

The Canadair 515, manufactured by De Havilland Canada, represents the next generation of amphibious firefighting aircraft, succeeding the well-known CL-415. It is specifically engineered for wildfire suppression, incorporating advanced features and modern technological systems. Images from the construction stages reveal the aircraft already bearing a Greek flag, symbolizing its future role.

As part of a collaborative European initiative to bolster wildfire fighting resources, Greece is scheduled to receive a total of seven Canadair 515 aircraft by 2031. This acquisition will significantly strengthen the nation's aerial fleet and enhance its operational readiness to face the increasingly challenging conditions posed by large-scale fires.