Numerous wildfires are currently raging in several parts of the country, particularly in the Alexandroupolis region. The Greek authorities have asked for international aid. Despite the mobilisation of several EU countries, the fires are still not contained, and Switzerland has decided to join the international effort.

On Saturday 2 September 2023, three Super Puma helicopters and Swiss Armed Forces personnel will be dispatched to Alexandroupolis. They will commence fire-fighting operations on Sunday.

This afternoon, a team composed of Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit and Swiss Armed Forces specialists left for Greece aboard a Swiss Air Force aircraft. The team will be responsible for coordinating with the Greek authorities. In all, around 30 Swiss specialists will take part in the operation.

Swiss Humanitarian Aid, which is part of the FDFA, has responsibility for the overall management of this operation. Switzerland had previously mobilised Super Puma helicopters for wildfires in Greece in the summer of 2021.

Information for journalists: A press briefing will be held on Saturday 2 September 2023, from 7.30am to 8.30am, as the three Swiss Armed Forces helicopters depart. Journalists interested in taking part are kindly asked to register with urs.mueller.mlr@vtg.admin.ch. A Swiss Armed Forces representative will be available for short interviews.

Wildfires in Greece: Switzerland dispatches army helicopters