Thanks to rtpscott for alerting us to this.
From RAF Odiham News on 21 May 2026, the above image and:
Across the training period, crews have been practising the full firefighting cycle – dipping the suspended bucket into open water before delivering controlled drops over designated areas. This essential training ensures crews are prepared to support wildfire response efforts as the season begins, protecting lives, infrastructure, and the environment.
In July 2025, the Flight played a vital role in supporting Cypriot authorities during the island’s largest wildfires since 1974, operating intensively over two days to help contain the fires.
As wildfire seasons become increasingly demanding, regular training ensures RAF crews remain ready to deliver this vital capability whenever it is required.
Why has the UK no equivalent firefighting aircraft based in the UK?
No major media have pushed ministers to answer this question in recent years despite large wildfires such as the Essex field fire that spread to homes.
This raises the question sharply:
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I read the report of the fire in Essex. It contains one vox pop from a local farmer who thanked the fire service for their work. The only blame was allocated to a firework which is thought to have been the cause. The local council and HMGovernment are not mentioned.
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The UK owns the land where their bases are in Cyprus. They refused to return it after colonial rule ended. UK imperial interest lives on.
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