A proposal for RAF water-bombing aircraft receives different assessments of Britain's domestic requirement. One participant points to recent fires as a reason to consider the capability, while Dr. Clarke argues that their scale does not justify a dedicated fixed-wing force. Heavy-lift helicopters such as Chinooks could carry sling tanks for the British requirement. For a more severe emergency, specialist aircraft could come from Mediterranean countries where hotter, drier conditions create greater demand, with Italy offered as an example. Overseas assistance also raises a funding choice: sending aid is presented as less expensive than maintaining a British fleet for the task.
Notable Point · 2:59:10-3:03:37
The case for and against RAF water-bombing aircraft
The water-bomber proposal raises a disagreement over British wildfire demand, with Chinook sling tanks and assistance from Mediterranean fleets offered as alternatives.