AviationNews – PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin company, has officially commenced production of Europe’s first two Sikorsky S-70 FIREHAWK helicopters in Poland. Destined for the Czech Republic Ministry of the Interior, these cutting-edge aircraft will significantly boost the continent’s aerial firefighting capabilities amidst worsening wildfire seasons.
The landmark agreement, initially secured in late 2025, involves a strategic partnership between PZL Mielec, Česká Letecká Servisní (CLS), and United Rotorcraft. As climate change drives record-breaking blazes across the European Union, the Czech Republic proactively modernized its emergency response infrastructure. Once completed, these Polish-built helicopters will serve as permanent assets under the European Commission’s RescEU program, guaranteeing rapid cross-border deployment during extreme wildfires, floods, and natural disasters throughout neighboring nations.
Built on the proven military airframe of the Black Hawk, the FIREHAWK undergoes extensive modification to become a specialized aerial firefighter. The core of its capability rests in a 1,000-gallon (3,785-liter) belly-mounted water tank equipped with a retractable snorkel, which pilots can refill in under 60 seconds while hovering directly above a water source. Powered by twin turbine engines and outfitted with advanced night-vision technology, the aircraft allows first responders to execute all-weather suppression missions and safely transport ground crews to the fire line in rapidly deteriorating conditions.
“As wildfires increasingly threaten communities across Europe, we are proud that PZL Mielec can provide such advanced helicopters to keep residents, resources, and infrastructure safe for decades to come,” said Janusz Zakręcki, president and general director of PZL Mielec. “This helicopter, produced in Poland, is a clear example of how our technology supports critical wildfire and emergency response efforts.”
The introduction of the FIREHAWK marks a decisive step toward a self-reliant and modernized continent-wide emergency response network. With the Czech Republic holding an option for a third helicopter, the RescEU fleet stands ready to expand its critical operations to protect vulnerable regions. Ultimately, these advanced assets provide European nations with the necessary tools to combat escalating climate emergencies while setting a new standard for international public safety collaboration.
