Today, a contract was signed for the procurement of eight medium-type Airbus H215 helicopters, with an option for an additional two. These helicopters will be delivered gradually over the next four years. The agreement was signed by the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Yannis Kefalogiannis, and the representative of the winning consortium Airbus Helicopters SAS – AIRTELIS – SAF HELICOPTERS, within the framework of the “AIGIS” program.

High-level officials, ambassadors, and representatives from the Ministry, the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF), and partner companies attended the ceremony. The helicopters will be delivered over four years, with a guaranteed operational availability of 95% during summer and a takeoff readiness within 20 minutes. The contract also includes:

• Pilot and technical staff training services (16 pilots and 16 technical personnel)
• Full operational and technical support for 8,700 flight hours

The project is funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), with a total budget of €311.2 million (€77.8 million from the RRF and €233.4 million from ERDF). The H215 helicopters, part of the Super Puma family, are multi-mission aircraft equipped with a four-axis autopilot, enabling firefighting missions day and night with high precision and stability. They have a range of 579 nautical miles, an endurance exceeding two hours, a water tank capacity of 3,785 liters, and can carry up to 19 firefighters, making them highly effective in wildfire suppression.

Minister Kefalogiannis stated: “This agreement is a significant step toward strengthening Civil Protection and the safety of our citizens. The collaboration of all involved agencies and the utilization of European funds demonstrate our collective commitment and national effort to address the challenges of climate change.”

Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters SAS, remarked: “Wildfires have destroyed an average of three to five million square kilometers worldwide in recent years, causing profound environmental impacts. We are honored to contribute to protecting Greek communities with the H215 helicopters. These aircraft are proven in firefighting missions globally, capable of dropping over four tons of water per mission. Our collaboration with experienced partners like Airtelis and SAF Aerogroup reflects the approach of France’s Civil Security (Sécurité Civile). Airbus Helicopters is a long-standing provider for critical missions in Greece, and through our ‘state ownership – operator’ model, we are confident that the H215 will be a valuable and reliable tool.”

Panos Stamboulidis, Deputy CEO of HRADF, emphasized: “Today marks a very important milestone for Civil Protection and our country, as we sign the largest contract under the ‘AIGIS’ National Program. The Civil Protection fleet is enhanced with 8 modern Airbus helicopters, with a total budget of €311 million, reinforcing the ‘AIGIS’ program as a strategic tool for the state to combat climate change impacts, protect the environment, and safeguard citizens’ property. This development also highlights the effectiveness of a new model of public procurement promoted by HRADF’s Strategic Contracts Unit (PPF), based on reliability, transparency, and efficiency. To date, we have completed over 100 tenders worth €1 billion, successfully addressing complex challenges. I thank my colleagues for their dedication and the Ministry for their excellent cooperation.”

The completion of this agreement will increase the program’s funding share from 29.74% to approximately 45%, with a goal to exceed 60% by the end of the year.

Minister Kefalogiannis emphasized that collective effort and timely preparedness are crucial, especially as climate change demands ongoing vigilance and active measures. The acquisition of these helicopters will provide Greece with a modern, reliable asset capable of saving lives, protecting property, and safeguarding our natural environment. This represents the true significance of completing this contract effectively and on time, aligning with the broader goals of the AIGIS program.