Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the creation of a special fire squadron in the country, which will include 22 aircraft and helicopters. This was reported on October 14 by RIA Novosti, citing sources.
“According to the instructions of the head of state, together with the state corporation Rostec, a flight squadron for firefighting will be created, consisting of 10 Be-200ES aircraft, 10 Ka-32A11M helicopters and two Mi-26T helicopters,” said one of the agency’s interlocutors.
Another source clarified that the squadron will be created at the expense of the National Welfare Fund, and its maintenance will be financed by Rostec.
In turn, the state corporation confirmed that there really is such an order. They said that the Ka-32A11M and Be-200 will form the basis of the grouping.
“This is the latest modification of the well-known helicopter – with an increased power engine, a“ glass cockpit ”and an improved fire extinguishing system. The Be-200 aircraft is unique, it has no analogues. These machines are in great demand when extinguishing forest fires, ”the state corporation said.
The news is supplemented