The GFRS is delighted to confirm the purchase of a specialised Aerial Ladder Platform to enhance its response to fires in tall and complex buildings, in addition to a wide range of other incidents.

This follows a competitive tender process, as well as comprehensive research and onsite tests carried out with two prospective providers.

The specialised Aerial Ladder Platform represents a significant investment of around £1.3 million, reflecting the ongoing commitment to the continuous development of a Fire Service that is ready and resourced to meet the needs of Gibraltar’s growing population and the changing nature of our built environment.

Whilst its primary purpose is to assist operations in tall and complex buildings, the Aerial Ladder Platform is a versatile appliance, and can be used in different types of emergency scenarios like rescues from buildings or other locations, defensive firefighting operations, and simply provides firefighting options for Incident Commanders.

The Aerial Ladder Platform has now been commissioned for manufacture and is expected to be available to the GFRS in the later part of 2026.

Chief Fire Officer Colin Ramirez said: “With Gibraltar’s evident growth comes the need to adapt as an emergency service that has an undeniable responsibility to safeguard our community. The GFRS has been working closely with HMGoG to make this significant investment in our response capabilities to ensure that we obtain an asset that adapts and is very specific to our capabilities, to Gibraltar’s demographics, and that will improve how we approach incidents of a more complex nature. The ultimate beneficiary of this acquisition is of course our community, our friends, our relatives, and let us not forget our Fire Fighters, who continue to seek ways to improve the service that they provide to safeguard Gibraltar and its people.”

The Minister with responsibilities for the fire service, the Hon Leslie Bruzon said “As mentioned by me in Parliament and as per my budget speech, the acquisition of this state-of-the-art Aerial Ladder Platform is a testament to the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to public safety. By investing in modern, specialised equipment, the GFRS is not only enhancing its operational capability but also ensuring that its firefighters have the tools necessary to work safely and effectively in challenging and high-risk situations. This development highlights the collaborative effort between the GFRS and HM Government of Gibraltar in prioritising community safety and resilience. Ultimately, this investment will help safeguard lives, property, and infrastructure while supporting the long-term growth and sustainability of Gibraltar.”

An Aerial Ladder Platform comparable to that commissioned by the GFRS