UK to draft in military aircraft to fight wildfires, Burnham says
Summary
The UK government plans to use military aircraft like RAF Chinook helicopters and A400M planes to help fight wildfires. They will also spend money on better equipment for firefighters and restore land to help prevent fires, following a record number of wildfires in 2026.Key Facts
- The UK will draft military aircraft to assist in fighting wildfires on difficult terrain.
- RAF Chinooks and A400M planes can be requested by civilian fire services for firefighting.
- In 2026, there were 1,350 wildfires in England and Wales, the highest on record.
- The government will spend £45 million on lighter, wildfire-specific protective gear for firefighters.
- A £25 million plan will restore peatlands in England to act as natural firebreaks between 2027 and 2029.
- Ministers may introduce tougher local rules or bans to prevent fires, such as restricting disposable BBQs.
- A new “Wildfires AI Unit” will use technology and expert advice to improve wildfire responses.
- The summer of 2026 was the hottest on record in the UK, increasing the risk of wildfires.
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