Europe Races to Build Next-Generation Water Bombers

European startups are accelerating efforts to develop new firefighting aircraft as wildfires become more frequent and severe across the continent. With nearly 500,000 hectares burned in Europe this year, companies are designing new or converted water-bombing aircraft to reduce reliance on the ageing Canadair fleet that has dominated aerial firefighting for decades.

French startups Positive Aviation and Kepplair are leading the push by converting ATR-72 aircraft into firefighting planes, while other companies in France, Italy, and Belgium are working on entirely new amphibious aircraft. However, experts warn that designing, certifying, and manufacturing these specialised aircraft requires significant funding, technical expertise, and years of development.

The startups also face competition from De Havilland Canada’s new DHC-515 water bomber, expected to enter service in 2028. Despite the challenges, European innovators believe growing concerns over climate-driven wildfires and increasing political support could create opportunities for a new generation of firefighting aircraft.

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