Scottish First Minister Requests UK Military Aerial Support for Cairngorms Wildfire

Scottish First Minister John Swinney has formally requested military aerial support from the UK Government to combat the Cairngorms wildfire, now in its 11th day. The request was made after a meeting of the Scottish Government's Resilience Room on Saturday, chaired by Swinney. The wildfire, which began on July 15, has led to a major incident declaration and the evacuation of residents from Nethy Bridge due to unpredictable flare-ups driven by strong winds. Swinney noted an improved picture but cautioned that conditions could change quickly. The request falls under the Military Aid to the Civil Authorities framework, typically involving helicopters with underslung buckets for water drops. Community leaders had called for military assistance within 48 hours of the outbreak. A response from the UK Government is pending.