Bhelma VI Marks 40 Years of Defense and Civil Service in Canary Islands
The 6th Maneuver Helicopter Battalion (Bhelma VI) is celebrating 40 years of service in the Canary Islands, marking a legacy of military operations and vital civil emergency support.
For 40 years, the 6th Maneuver Helicopter Battalion (Bhelma VI) has served as a cornerstone of defense and civil security in the Canary Islands. Since arriving in Tenerife in 1986, the unit has logged over 49,000 flight hours—a significant milestone for a force that began as a series of plans in the late 1970s.
At a commemorative event at Los Rodeos Base, presided over by General Alfonso Pardo de Santayana, the battalion reflected on its growth. Originally part of the Army Airmobile Force (Famet), it is now integrated into the Canary Islands Command. This structure allows the unit to carry out both combat and logistical support missions. Last year alone, the battalion recorded 1,491 flight hours, a figure leadership hopes to increase soon.
The importance of Bhelma VI extends well beyond military operations. The unit has served in international conflict zones, including Iraq, Lebanon, and Bosnia-Herzegovina—earning special recognition from the Ministry of Defense in 2023. At home, the battalion is a vital resource for the public, notably rescuing 120 people trapped by a landslide in Teno in 2016 and regularly assisting in forest fire suppression efforts like "Prometeo" and "Centinela Canario."
Lieutenant Colonel Luis Alonso Sánchez Sánchez used the anniversary to highlight the unit's future challenges. Key priorities include retaining skilled personnel, managing a generational handover, and upgrading infrastructure to accommodate new aircraft. These goals complement ongoing training initiatives, such as maritime survival courses that have already certified over 270 soldiers.
The history of Bhelma VI is one of constant evolution. From its first public appearance at the 1986 Armed Forces Day parade to its current role, the battalion has steadily expanded its capabilities. Today, it works closely with the Military Emergencies Unit (UME), the Civil Guard, and various civil protection agencies, proving itself an essential asset for stability and crisis response across the islands.