TIRANA, Oct 4 /ATA/ – Albania will expand its use of drone technology and strengthen aerial firefighting capacities as part of a broader overhaul of its civil protection system, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced on Saturday.
Speaking at the Farka Air Base, Rama outlined government plans to deploy thermal camera drones for real-time forest surveillance and early fire detection, alongside drones designed to reseed areas damaged by wildfires. “We must significantly expand our drone fleet,” he said. “We are procuring thermal drones to capture fire signals immediately, while also evaluating drones capable of replanting scorched territories.”
The government head added that Albania will gradually build up its air fleet with firefighting aircraft and is investing in early-warning systems supported by new control centers to ensure rapid ground response.
Rama also confirmed that the Air Force Academy in Vlora, already in the process of establishment, will soon open its doors physically to begin training new pilots and further strengthen the country’s aerial capacities.
Describing the fight against wildfires as “a real battle that demands patience and strength,” Rama stressed that the government is closely following international practices, citing large-scale investments made in Greece, Italy, and other countries to improve resilience and reduce fire damage.
The event was attended by Defense Minister Pirro Vengu, Interior Minister Albana Koçiu, and Minister of State for Local Government Ervin Demo.
/m.q//a.f/u.sh/
