Flying Through the Night to Aid the Population. The Air Force helicopter took off from Decimomannu Military Airport and, after embarking personnel from the CNSAS at the helipad of Nuoro Hospital to transfer them to the emergency site, began air search operations, reporting those affected by the floods spotted from above to the ground rescue teams, who then proceeded with the recovery. The AB-212 crew operated entirely with night vision goggles (NVG), given the adverse weather conditions and the darkness that enveloped the area due to the power outage. The Air Force has arranged for the transfer of an AB-212 helicopter to Olbia Airport, while another AB-212 remains on standby at Decimomannu Airport. Additionally, an HH-3F helicopter is ready at Pratica di Mare Military Airport (RM). The request for assistance in the emergency came from the Prefecture of Nuoro to the Air Force's Summit Situations Room, and the Air Operations Command (COA) in Poggio Renatico coordinated the air rescue activity. The 15th Wing carries out Search and Rescue (SAR) tasks within national territory and international waters around Italy, as well as cooperation and intervention in favour of the civilian population in cases of disaster. In recent years, also owing to the changed global scenario, the 15th Wing is also engaged in international humanitarian missions alongside its national commitments. The Department has also acquired capabilities for Search and Support for military personnel in hostile territory (Combat SAR) and for supporting the security of sensitive areas and objectives during major public events on national territory, such as the interception of low-performance aircraft (Slow Movers Interception).
