Aviation News – Sikorsky and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) have launched a five-year initiative to enhance aerial firefighting technologies and explore autonomous operations for the FIREHAWK® helicopter.
The agreement, announced in September 2025, builds on CAL FIRE’s existing fleet of 16 Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters, two of which were delivered earlier this summer. The program underscores California’s ongoing investment in modern wildfire suppression tools as the state faces increasingly severe fire seasons.
The S-70i FIREHAWK, a specialized version of the Black Hawk helicopter, is designed for demanding missions. It can fly at speeds of up to 155 knots, operate in high winds, and reach altitudes of 10,000 feet. With these capabilities, the aircraft can quickly deliver large volumes of water and personnel to critical wildfire zones, significantly improving response times.
“This collaboration allows us to look toward the future of firefighting with innovative technologies that can help save lives, protect communities, and better support our firefighters on the ground,” a CAL FIRE spokesperson said.
The initiative will focus on developing autonomous functions that could extend operational flexibility, reduce risks to pilots, and allow aircraft to be deployed in dangerous or hard-to-reach environments. Officials believe this technology could reshape aerial firefighting over the next decade.
By combining Sikorsky’s advanced autonomy research with CAL FIRE’s operational experience, the partnership aims to set new standards in wildfire suppression. As climate-driven fire risks rise, the initiative reflects a broader push to modernize aerial firefighting capabilities across the United States.
Photo Lockheed Martin
