The helicopters are replacements for older models currently stationed on Fuerteventura, El Hierro and La Palma. The new choppers mean that the Canaries now have the most up-to-date equipment in Europe.

Each one can carry 14 passengers and their water tanks hold 1,589 litres of water.

Given that the Canary Islands experience forest fires every summer (the Canary pine has evolved to burn fast as it means that the trees survive) and have regular search and rescue operations on land and at sea, it's good to know we've got the gear to handle them. 

More info (in Spanish)