Turkey has recently introduced its state-of-the-art fire management aircraft, “Otag,” which has been lauded as the airborne headquarters of the nation due to its advanced capabilities. Developed in response to the increasing threat of wildfires, Otag is poised to revolutionize Turkey’s forest management and response to environmental disasters.
Fitted with advanced technology, Otag has positioned Turkey as the fifth country globally to possess such sophisticated fire management capabilities. Tailored to tackle the challenges of forest fires, Otag can establish communication with satellite equipment even in remote, mountainous terrains where traditional methods are often ineffective.
Bekir Karacabey, the General Manager of Forestry, emphasized the aircraft’s capability to swiftly transmit crucial data to decision-makers, courtesy of its sophisticated equipment. Otag, also known as the flying headquarters, was personally christened by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reflecting the nation’s pride in this pioneering innovation.
In addition to its firefighting function, Otag is equipped to provide high-resolution images of forestry activities, including the identification of diseased trees and monitoring of soil moisture levels. It can also identify various tree species and assess the overall forest structure, offering valuable insights for planning and conservation efforts.
Otag’s operational capabilities are truly remarkable, as it can remain airborne for up to 8 hours while fulfilling its vital tasks. Furthermore, the data collected by Otag can be instantly monitored and analyzed from both the Fire Management Center and Air Management Center, facilitating swift and effective decision-making during crises.
The General Directorate of Forestry in Turkey has also bolstered its ground firefighting capabilities, with a fleet of 105 helicopters, 26 planes, and 14 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Additionally, the organization is equipped with 2,453 first response vehicles, 821 work machines, and a dedicated team of 25,000 personnel, rendering it the most formidable resource in the history of the Republic for responding to forest fires.
Looking forward, the General Directorate of Forestry is committed to expanding its capabilities, having recently added 4 fire extinguishing planes to its inventory and incorporated 14 UAVs. These enhancements underscore a proactive approach to disaster management, recognizing the significance of technological innovation in safeguarding the nation’s natural resources.
Conclusively, Otag signifies a bold stride forward in Turkey’s disaster relief capabilities, boasting an array of advanced features that position it as a pivotal asset in combating forest fires and preserving the nation’s environment. As Turkey continues to invest in cutting-edge technologies, it is poised to establish new benchmarks in disaster management and environmental conservation, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for its citizens.