Meet CAL FIRE's Aerial Heroes: The Aircraft Fleet Battling California's Wildfires

As California faces another week of relentless wildfires near Los Angeles, the spotlight shines on the heroes battling the blazes.

These specialised aircraft drop thousands of gallons of water and retardant, serving as a lifeline in the state's wildfire defence strategy.

C-130 Hercules Air-tankerNumber in Fleet: 2 (+5 in modification)Role: Large Air TankerRetardant Payload: 4,000 gallonsSpeed: 310 knotsEndurance: 8 hoursThese colossal aircraft, transferred from the US Coast Guard and refitted for firefighting, excel in rapid delivery of retardant. With their impressive payloads and speed, they are invaluable for initial attacks on wildfires. The first C-130 entered service in August 2024, with more joining soon.

Grumman S-2T AirtankerNumber in Fleet: 23Role: AirtankerRetardant Payload: 1,200 gallonsSpeed: 235 knotsEndurance: 4.5 hours

Originally designed for anti-submarine warfare, these aircraft were transformed into agile firefighting machines.

Their speed and manoeuvrability allow them to respond swiftly, often within 20 minutes of a fire report.

Rockwell OV-10A BroncoNumber in Fleet: 16Role: Tactical AircraftCrew: 2 (pilot, observer)Speed: 250 knotsEndurance: 5 hoursThese tactical planes serve as command centers in the sky, coordinating aerial operations. Equipped with experienced Air Attack Officers, they direct tankers to precise drop locations, ensuring accuracy in combating fires.

Bell UH-1H Super HueyNumber in Fleet: 12Role: HelicopterRetardant Payload: 324 gallons (bucket) + 360 gallons (fixed tank)Speed: 110 knotsEndurance: 2 hours

Acquired in 1981, these modified helicopters are reliable for transporting crews and conducting rescues.