Alongside the new wildfire capability, the Government has committed £97 million towards what it describes as the largest upgrade of national resilience assets in almost 20 years. The investment will fund new specialist equipment and vehicles, including dedicated off-road appliances designed to improve access and operational effectiveness in challenging terrain.

Backing the front line

Building Safety Minister Samantha Dixon stated: “This country benefits from a dedicated Fire and Rescue Service operation and, as incidents continue to evolve in complexity, it’s critical that we back those on the front line with the latest equipment.”  

Dixon continued: “Last year witnessed some of the most devastating wildfires in our recent history and, as we head into peak season, we’re delivering the resource, training and assets needed to minimise the escalating risk.”

The Fire National Resilience Programme was established following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, recognising the need for specialist capabilities, personnel and resources to support Fire and Rescue Services in responding to large-scale and complex national emergencies.

The latest investment will support the modernisation of existing resilience assets, ensuring Fire and Rescue Services have access to the equipment and resources needed to respond effectively to a broad range of incidents, including wildfires, flooding and structural collapse.

National resilience capabilities were deployed more than 1,000 times during 2025, reflecting the increasing demand placed on Fire and Rescue Services and the growing importance of maintaining specialist response resources.

The new wildfire response teams will be hosted by Fire and Rescue Services in Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Northumberland, London and South Wales, with the capability to deploy to incidents across England from the end of June.

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