Italian first (of 3) C-130 arrived in Libya

The first of three flights organized by Italy for the transport of personnel and materials to help deal with the emergency caused by the heavy floods that hit Libya took off from Pisa San Giusto AB at 1:45 pm.

Aboard the Italian air Force Lockheed Martin C-130J (reg. MM62196), a MO.CRAB module – Basic Aquatic Risk Control Module of the Fire Brigade and Department staff, plus a first load of materials, was loaded.

The second C-130, with a TAST module – Technical Assistance and Support Teams of the Fire Brigade, a group of firefighters trained for emergencies abroad and specialized in logistical support, and additional personnel and materials will take off in the afternoon, while a third flight is scheduled for tomorrow morning. Including the advanced team that left yesterday, there will be a total of 36 units of personnel employed in the affected area between the Fire Brigade, the Joint Operations Command and the Department of Civil Protection, as well as diplomatic personnel from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The Department, in close and constant coordination with the Italian team on the ground and with Regions, Autonomous Provinces and operational structures, is continuing to survey the needs and available materials for the possible organization of other shipments in the coming hours.