Tenerife Launches 'Operation Sentinel' With Enhanced Drone and Night-Vision Tech to Combat Wildfires
Tenerife has launched the third annual "Operation Sentinel," deploying military patrols and advanced drone technology to enhance wildfire prevention and surveillance throughout the summer months.
Tenerife is stepping up its forest protection efforts this summer. Following a new agreement between the Ministry of Defense and the Island Council, "Operation Sentinel" will return for its third consecutive year, this time using more advanced technology to better protect the island’s natural landscape from wildfires.
The partnership, signed by Minister Margarita Robles and Island President Rosa Dávila, will run from June 1 to September 30—a period when weather conditions make the island particularly vulnerable to fire. During these months, the Spanish Army’s Canary Islands Brigade will deploy ten daily patrols, working in eight-hour shifts to monitor forest areas and deter potential fire hazards.
This year’s campaign features a significant upgrade in surveillance. The use of drones will allow for more accurate monitoring and faster detection of fires, helping teams respond more quickly. Additionally, up to two helicopters equipped with night-vision technology will be available to assist in difficult-to-reach or steep terrain where visibility is limited.
This collaboration highlights the need for different levels of government to work together as wildfires become more intense. By involving the Armed Forces in civil security, both the central and island governments are prioritizing prevention to protect both the environment and the communities living near high-risk areas. Given the success of previous years, this joint effort has become a vital part of Tenerife’s strategy for civil protection.