Russia ready to send fire-fighting aviation to Croatia and Bosnia

Russian Emergencies Minister Vladimir Puchkov has offered help to Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, in extinguishing wild fires, including the provision of fire-fighting aircraft, the Russian Emergencies Ministry press service told TASS.

"The ministry’s head, Vladimir Puchkov, has sent telegrams with an offer to grant practical aid in liquidating the natural disasters to Croatia’ Interior Minister Ranko Ostoic and BiH Security Minister Dragan Mektic" the Emergencies Ministry’s press service went on to say.

Both Balkan nations have been hit by wildfires.

"The Russian Emergencies Ministry is ready to immediately send modern fire-fighting equipment to the fire-stricken regions in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, including Il-76 and Be-200 Chs aircraft as well as experts and rescuers fitted out with equipment to suppress fires and organize ground support for aviation," Puchkov said in his telegram.

An Il-76 aircraft also known as "water bomber" can pour 42 tonnes of water on a fire seat at a time. The amphibious Be-200 Chs multi-role aircraft can drop 12 tonnes of water at a time.