A $4.75 million agreement has been reached to buy four new firefighting vehicles for the airport.

The Ministry of National Security said that the “highly specialised” trucks were essential to meet requirements for the aerodrome’s operating licence.

Details were provided in a notice on the Government’s Official Gazette, where public authority contracts valued at $50,000 or more must be published in line with the Public Access to Information Act.

The entry showed that Rosenbauer International AG was contracted to provide four major foam vehicles in an agreement from July 16, this year to July 25, 2025.

A national security ministry spokesman said this week: “The LF Wade International Airport is designated as a Category 9 airport, which requires a minimum of three major foam vehicles to be operational during the aerodrome's active hours.

“The acquisition of four vehicles is essential to ensure that we have the necessary capacity to replace any vehicle that may be undergoing regular servicing, preventive maintenance or experiencing malfunctions.

“Given Bermuda's geographical isolation, we cannot rely on neighbouring airports for back-up or mutual aid; therefore, it is critical that we are fully self-sufficient to meet international regulatory requirements.”

The contract resulted from a request for proposals that was published on the government procurement webpage last year, when it sought bids for the design, construction and delivery of the vehicles.

It said that the successful proponent would also be responsible for providing “comprehensive maintenance, support and spare parts to ensure efficient and effective vehicle operations”.

The RFP explained: “The airport fire rescue foam vehicles are intended to bolster our firefighting and rescue efforts.

“The vehicles shall be designed and equipped to meet the stringent demands of aircraft rescue and firefighting operations.

“They should adhere to the latest industry standards and regulations.”

The national security ministry spokesman said this week: “These highly specialised vehicles are integral to providing the fire protection required for the Aerodrome Certificate holder's operational licence.

“Without them, the airport would not be able to meet the necessary fire protection standards, which are crucial for maintaining its certification.

“The airport plays a vital role in Bermuda's economy by facilitating business operations, supporting tourism and serving international travellers. The major foam vehicles are an essential component of its overall safety and functionality.”

He added that the contract’s 12-month timeline reflected the manufacturing time needed for the trucks.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, said in February that the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service was allocated almost $17 million for operations in the 2024-25 Budget and $3.6 million in capital funding.

He added: “This funding will support the recruitment of 15 new firefighters and the purchase of four new trucks that are being specifically designed for the BFRS team at the LF Wade International Airport.

“These new trucks will replace ageing trucks and greatly enhance our emergency response capabilities at the airport.”