Spain boosts fire prevention with AI satellite detection, expanded brigades and Ecofire retardant

Allianz Seguros partnered with the startup Satellites on Fire to launch an early‑fire detection system that uses artificial intelligence and satellite observations to monitor more than 50 million hectares across Spain. The technology is expected to cut detection times by roughly 35 minutes compared with reference systems and to identify up to 30 % more fires. The pilot will run during the summer of 2026 and will also feed information to authorities and policy‑holders.

The regional government of Castilla y León announced a programme that will invest over €100 million in fire‑fighting brigades by 2028. Seven new helicopters will be added for the 2027 season and the ground‑crew budget will rise from €55 million in 2025 to more than €100 million, strengthening both aerial and terrestrial response capabilities.

Ecofire CEO Iván Moreno described a fire‑retardant liquid that creates an ignitability‑proof coating on treated surfaces. The product, already distributed in more than 40 countries, is marketed as an ecological, permanent fire barrier that can protect forests, buildings and agricultural areas.

A separate wildfire near La Mierla in Castilla‑La Mancha burned about 800 hectares, prompting the deployment of up to ten aerial assets, 24 ground units and 136 personnel, and the request for assistance from the military emergency unit. The incident underscores the urgency of the detection and response measures being introduced nationwide.