Cal Fire has reached a new milestone with the addition of two S-70i Firehawks that bring their fleet total to 16. 

CAL FIRE is now the world’s largest FIREHAWK fleet, a purpose-built, mission-specific helicopters designed to meet the year-round challenges of wildfire and all-hazard emergency response. These new aircraft enhance CAL FIRE’s rapid response capabilities while supporting the agency’s aggressive initial attack strategy.

Each Firehawk is equipped with: a 1,000-gallon water tank, Night vision technology to support 24-hour operations, an external hoist and room to transport a nine-person Helitack crew

These aircraft help Cal Fire keep 95 percent of wildfires to 10 acres or less—a key part of the agency’s aggressive initial attack strategy.

“Our fleet of Firehawk helicopters, now the largest in the world, is a proven tool in our growing firefighting arsenal,” said California Governor Gavin Newsom. 

“During the devastating Los Angeles fires, we saw them in action, conducting critical missions at night which stopped the Palisades Fire from dipping into Mandeville Canyon and toward the 405 freeway. Hundreds of homes were saved because of these state-of-the-art helicopters and their heroic pilots.”