XENA, the only commercial operator of the AN-32P Firekiller, delivers unmatched, cost-effective, and meticulously managed aerial firefighting services worldwide.
Founded in 2019 as a subsidiary of Expedition Aviation – a UAE based, turnkey aviation project management company, XENA quickly developed its presence in Ukraine's aviation sector by building a professional team, securing necessary certifications, and establishing service infrastructure.
Starting with two AN-2 aircraft for specialized operations, XENA later expanded its capabilities to include large firefighting tanker operations, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and technical excellence in aviation services.
In 2021, the company achieved an historic milestone by becoming Ukraine's first fixed-wing commercial aerial firefighting operator with its AN-32P Firekiller aircraft, establishing a complete operational system under civil aviation rules – a capability previously exclusive to the Ukraine's State Emergency Service.
XENA has distinguished itself as a reliable provider of international firefighting assistance. The company's operations in Turkey and Georgia have earned public recognition and gratitude, demonstrating the effectiveness of AN-32P and XENA's proficiency in international markets. For example, during the 2024 firefighting season in Turkey, the XENA team conducted over 300 missions, dropping nearly 2.5 million liters of water to extinguish fires throughout the country.
An-32P: The Firefighting Flagship
The An-32P firefighting aircraft, manufactured by Antonov State Enterprise, represents the pinnacle of aerial firefighting technology. Through close cooperation with Antonov and Expedition Aviation group partner companies, XENA has converted several An-32 into An-32P, installing autonomous pouring tanks, upgrading avionics, overhauling engines, replacing life-limited parts, and upgrading the cabin and paint schemes. After six months of intensive overhaul, Xena rolls out the most modernized An-32P aircraft available, combining high-performance systems reliability with top-notch commercial firefighting capabilities.
The An-32P excels in its primary firefighting role, delivering precision water or fire-retardant discharge of 8,000 liters. Operating at low altitudes of 40 meters and speeds of 230 km/h, the aircraft can cover an area of 35 by 160 meters in a single drop or 20 by 300 meters by two consecutive drops of 4,000 liters each. With four autonomous pouring units that can be refilled in just 5-7 minutes, the An-32P is capable of delivering up to 32,000 liters of water per hour.
The aircraft's versatility extends to multiple emergency response roles, including:
- Transport of oversized cargo and emergency personnel
- Accommodation for up to 24 stretchers
- Deployment of up to 27 smokejumpers
- Airdrops of emergency supplies and firefighting equipment
Its robust design features high engine mounting and low-pressure tires enabling short take-off and landing on unpaved runways, while the rear ramp cargo door accommodates up to 6,700 kilograms of internal cargo in its 66 square meter space. The An-32P maintains operational capability in extreme temperatures up to 55°C and can perform at airfield heights up to 4,500 meters above sea level.
Professional Excellence
XENA's success stems from its distinguished team of aviation professionals with decades of industry experience. The company's workforce includes skilled pilots, engineers, mechanics, administrative and support staff, each contributing expertise from Ukraine's rich aviation heritage.
"Our team embodies the spirit of resilience and excellence," says Roman Mileshko, XENA's founder. "By combining the An-32P's exceptional capabilities with our highly experienced crews, we've created a formidable firefighting force. As we continue to grow and innovate, we represent professional distinction in the global aviation industry and our dedication to aerial firefighting missions."
Strategic Growth and Future Vision
Looking ahead in 2025, XENA plans to expand its fleet to meet growing international demand. The combination of cutting-edge aircraft technology, superior expertise, and strategic vision positions XENA at the forefront of international aerial firefighting. The company remains committed to its founding principles of technical excellence, operational safety, and continuous innovation – carrying forward Ukraine's proud aviation legacy while pioneering new approaches in international firefighting operations.
