Iraq to add firefighting aircraft in upgrade to Civil Defense fleet

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Interior announced plans Monday to modernize the Civil Defense Directorate’s fleet with new firefighting and rescue equipment, including the purchase of two aircraft — a first since the directorate was founded in 1956.

Nuas Sabah, spokesperson for the Civil Defense Directorate, told state-run Al-Sabah newspaper that contracts for the two aircraft are in their final stages. One aircraft will be designated for aerial firefighting in difficult terrain, while the other will support disaster-related rescue operations.

“The directorate is working to upgrade its fleet with the latest technological tools used in firefighting and rescue operations,” Sabah said. “It is the first time that aircraft will be incorporated into the directorate’s work since its establishment.”

He said the helicopters will be tailored to the directorate’s needs and equipped to operate in remote areas and large-scale emergencies. Sabah credited Interior Minister Abdul Amir Al-Shammari for advancing the initiative.

The ministry has also introduced rapid-response vehicles designed to access narrow streets and alleys, which are common in many Iraqi cities. “These vehicles can quickly reach incident sites and carry out preliminary firefighting tasks before full teams arrive,” Sabah said.

He added that these vehicles are the first of their kind to be used in Iraq and were developed to address urgent needs in older urban environments.

The directorate plans to continue expanding its capabilities through future contracts, with a focus on acquiring vehicles for firefighting, support, and emergency medical response. Sabah said the modernization effort will “mark a major step forward” in the country’s ability to respond to emergencies in densely populated areas.