Emergency Situations Minister Tsolakyan Announces Plans to Acquire Four Helicopters for Firefighting

The Minister of Emergency Situations of Armenia, Felix Tsolakyan, announced during a press conference today that there are issues regarding the technical capacity of the system.

"We do not underestimate our capabilities, but at the same time, we do not overestimate them," stated the minister, noting that compared to developed countries, the technical equipment of the Armenian Emergency Situations Ministry is even below average.

"Until recently, we did not have even the simplest handheld tools, but the Armenian government allocated funds, and we acquired them. Hand tools are very important; for example, you cannot extinguish forest fires with a vehicle," he emphasized.

The minister pointed out that in terms of technical capabilities, the equipment received from donors is beneficial: "Recently, we received 18 firefighting vehicles from a Japanese company, and we are expecting another 22 in November. We have an agreement with the Russian side to provide us with 26 vehicles."

Tsolakyan mentioned that the Ministry intends to purchase four helicopters from Russia in the future to combat fires. "We have discussed several options regarding the helicopters in the government. It seems we have found the best solution. I cannot specify any deadlines for now, but if everything goes positively, we will soon have four helicopters," he said.

Last year, to combat forest fires and evacuate those affected, the Ministry utilized aviation helicopters. According to the minister, those vehicles are relatively small and not designed for long-distance flights. Therefore, it has been decided to establish a helicopter aviation, although it is an expensive endeavor.

The minister also noted that the technical equipping of regional units of the firefighting and rescue service is gradually being addressed. For now, this is achieved by transferring equipment; some regions will receive new vehicles, while the old ones will be transferred to others.