The Operational Command of Madeira (COM) of the Portuguese Armed Forces conducted a nighttime operation using military drones from July 3rd to 7th, 2026. The mission focused on monitoring and surveillance of rural fires, specifically in the municipalities of Ribeira Brava and Câmara de Lobos.
This operation was part of the 2026 Rural Firefighting Operational Plan (POCIR26) and was coordinated with the Regional Civil Protection Service. DJI Matrice 300 RTK drones were utilized, equipped with electro-optical systems featuring night and thermal vision, capable of operating in low-light and infrared conditions.
The drones, in service with COM in Madeira since 2020, possess advanced technical specifications, including a 55-minute flight time, a radio range of up to 15 km, and the ability to operate at high altitudes. COM, based in Funchal, is a command and control body responsible for the planning and operational deployment of military forces in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
