In June 2023, a large fire broke out at Longmoor Ranges, a military training area near Longmoor Army Camp in Hampshire. The blaze, which was ignited during explosives training, quickly spread across 16 hectares of woodland and scrubland, sending thick smoke billowing into the sky.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) later confirmed that the fire resulted from military exercises, despite precautions being in place. Multiple fire crews were called in to battle the flames, working tirelessly to contain the fire and protect surrounding areas.
Capturing the Longmoor Ranges Fire with Drone Photography

As the fire spread, we used drone photography and drone videography to capture aerial footage of the incident from a safe distance, ensuring full compliance with CAA Drone Code regulations. This footage provided a clear overview of the fire’s progression while keeping well clear of the emergency response efforts.
Our drone footage of the Longmoor Ranges fire became a key reference for local communities following the event, helping to keep residents informed about the scale of the blaze and the ongoing firefighting efforts.
The Challenges of Filming in a Restricted Area
Operating near military training grounds always presents unique challenges, especially when filming in an active emergency situation. Given Longmoor Ranges’ proximity to controlled airspace, we ensured that:
• All drone flights adhered to CAA regulations, maintaining a safe and legal distance from the fire.
• The footage provided useful updates, without interfering with emergency response teams.
• We documented the scale of the fire, creating an archive of the incident for future reference.
Why Drone Videography is Crucial for Emergency Documentation
Using drone video and aerial photography for incidents like the Longmoor Ranges fire helps:
• Provide a unique perspective that ground-level photography cannot achieve.
• Raise public awareness of the impact and response efforts.
• Offer a clear visual record of the event for historical and reference purposes.
• Support safety analysis for authorities reviewing wildfire response strategies.
Watch Our Drone Video of the Longmoor Ranges Fire
Our aerial drone video of the Longmoor Ranges fire remains one of the most widely shared videos documenting this event. You can watch the footage here:
Drone Photography & Videography in Hampshire and Surrey
At South Downs Drones, we specialize in professional drone photography and drone videography for a range of applications, including:
• Aerial drone photography for commercial projects, real estate, and events.
• Drone video services for marketing, property showcases, and construction progress.
• Drone event video production, capturing key moments safely and professionally.
Whether you need drone footage for an emergency, event, or commercial project, we provide high-quality, CAA-compliant aerial videography across Hampshire, Surrey, and surrounding areas.
📍 Need professional drone photography or drone videography? Get in touch today! 🚀
Comments