Elad Aerial Firefighters Squadron
Elad, is an exceptional aerial firefighting squadron operated by Elbit Systems, which plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Israel against the devastating threat of forest fires. Established in 2011, this squadron, initially known as the 249th, was rapidly formed in direct response to the harrowing lessons learned from the Carmel Forest Fire Disaster of 2010.
Transitioning from the Israeli Air Force (IAF) to the Israeli Police Aerial Unit, under the expert guidance of Elbit Systems’ firefighting program leaders, Elad squadron boasts a team of seasoned professionals, including former IAF pilots, with extensive experience in aerial firefighting operations.
With a swift response time, Elad maintains a fleet of six aircraft on standby, ready to deploy within 15 minutes throughout the year. This strategic readiness enables them to swiftly reach virtually any location in the country when a forest ignites, upon receiving a call from the police operations room.
Operating several planes stationed at Kedma airfield for the southern region and others at Megiddo airfield guarding the northern areas and the Golan Heights, the squadron’s modern firefighting strategy involves aircraft equipped to carry 3,000 liters of liquid, including water, foam, or fire retardant. This capability provides the Israeli Ministry of Public Security with a decisive advantage in forest fire prevention.
Over the past 12 years, the Elad Squadron has honed its expertise and undertaken ambitious initiatives, firmly establishing itself as a dependable defender, protecting the Israeli landscape and its citizens against the ravages of forest fires.