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Allianz tests AI wildfire detection system in Spain
The system is designed to detect heat sources about 35 minutes earlier than NASA reference systems, and Allianz says it will also improve false-negative rates by 40% in early stages.
Allianz Seguros has partnered with climate-tech startup Satellites on Fire to launch an AI-powered wildfire detection system in Spain. During the summer, the companies will monitor more than 50 million hectares using multiple satellite constellations, artificial intelligence and predictive models to test detection of heat sources and forecasts of how fires may spread.
According to Allianz, the technology detects fires about 35 minutes earlier than NASA reference systems, identifies up to 30% more fires, and reduces early-stage false negatives by 40%. The insurer plans to alert policyholders when insured assets are near fires that could spread, while also sharing information with public authorities to support emergency response.
The launch comes after what Allianz describes as Spain’s worst wildfire year in three decades. Fires burned 354,793 hectares in 2025 and caused losses approaching €5 billion, with insurers paying €770 million, according to UNESPA.
Allianz said Satellites on Fire delivers alerts through WhatsApp, email and SMS, using satellite data, tower cameras and fire-propagation models. In a statement, Allianz Seguros CEO Veit Stutz said the project reflects a shift toward anticipating risk so insurers can help protect people, land and economic activity before incidents escalate.