The government has reinforced aerial surveillance to combat an increased risk of rural fires, with a focus on 26 municipalities hit by storm Kristin last winter. A surveillance centre at the Monte Real Air Base is now active, with officials coordinating the deployment of drones and aircraft to monitor conditions as extreme heat is expected.
Government boosts aerial surveillance for wildfire risk
Friday, 19 June 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
The Monte Real Air Base (Base Aérea de Monte Real or BA5) is a major military installation located near Leiria that serves as the primary hub for the Portuguese Air Force's fighter jet operations. It houses the F-16 Fighting Falcon fleet and plays a central role in national defense, including aerial surveillance and emergency response coordination.
4 sources
- Government opens surveillance centre in Monte Real and fears severe fires in municipalities affected by Kristindn.pt ·
- Aerial surveillance reinforced with extreme heat in sightobservador.pt ·
- Fire hazard threatens São João balloonscmjornal.pt ·
- Wildfires: Government reinforces aerial surveillance, prioritizing municipalities affected by Kristinrtp.pt ·
