- The County of Los Angeles Fire Department has contracted for two new Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters.
- These additions aim to bolster wildfire suppression and emergency response capabilities across the county.
- The FIREHAWK has been a critical component of LA County’s aerial firefighting for over two decades.
- The new aircraft are part of a broader initiative by Lockheed Martin to integrate digital technology for wildfire management.
- This contract reinforces a long-standing partnership between the county and Sikorsky, dating back to the late 1990s.
The County of Los Angeles Fire Department is enhancing its aerial firefighting and emergency response capabilities with the acquisition of two new Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters. This move is critical as the region faces intensifying wildfire threats. The new aircraft will augment the department’s ability to conduct round-the-clock wildfire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical services across the county’s vast 4,000 square mile area.
County of Los Angeles Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone stated, “The FIREHAWK helicopter has been the cornerstone of our aerial firefighting capability for more than two decades.” He added that the addition of these two new platforms will significantly improve their capacity to respond to diverse emergency situations and contain wildfires effectively, even under challenging conditions. This investment underscores the department’s commitment to leveraging advanced aerial assets for public safety.
At a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Type | S-70i FIREHAWK |
| Acquired By | County of Los Angeles Fire Department |
| Number of Aircraft | Two |
| Primary Missions | Wildfire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services |
| Partnership Duration | Over two decades (since late 1990s) |
Why the FIREHAWK Remains Indispensable
Since the early 2000s, the FIREHAWK helicopter has been the primary rotary-wing asset for the County of Los Angeles Fire Department, tackling major wildfires and a wide array of other emergencies. These include medical evacuations, search and rescue missions, and disaster relief efforts. The aircraft’s unique design and capabilities make it exceptionally well-suited for California’s demanding fire environment.
For 25 years, California firefighters have relied on the FIREHAWK’s proven performance. Its ability to accurately drop large volumes of water and operate in adverse conditions, when other aircraft might be grounded, has cemented its reputation as a versatile, essential tool for emergency response. This reliability is crucial in a state prone to extreme weather events that exacerbate fire risks.
A Legacy of Innovation Rooted in California
The FIREHAWK’s development began in the late 1990s when Los Angeles County fire leaders envisioned adapting the U.S. Army’s Black Hawk helicopter for firefighting purposes. Engineered to meet the stringent requirements of California’s firefighting operations, the FIREHAWK can transport a full crew while simultaneously delivering substantial water payloads directly to fire lines.
Through over a quarter-century of field testing and operational feedback, the FIREHAWK has evolved into the robust and versatile emergency response aircraft it is today. This continuous refinement, driven by real-world use, ensures the aircraft remains at the forefront of aerial firefighting technology. The contract highlights Sikorsky’s ongoing commitment to supporting the county’s life-saving missions.
Broader Technological Integration
The S-70i FIREHAWK is part of Lockheed Martin’s broader initiative, known as 21st Century Firefighting. This program focuses on accelerating the development and integration of digital technologies to enhance decision-making for wildfire management. Lockheed Martin is exploring a range of solutions, including fixed-wing firefighting aircraft like the C-130 Hercules, and AI-enabled technologies for near real-time intelligence delivery to first responders.
The company is actively demonstrating these capabilities through initiatives such as a two-year pilot program with the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control. This strategic approach aims to equip emergency services with advanced tools to better combat increasingly complex fire environments.