United States - September 02, 2024

In a significant boost to California's wildfire combat capabilities, CAL FIRE's Tanker 122, a newly commissioned C-130H, has completed its inaugural firefighting mission. The aircraft, which marks the first fully operational C-130H in CAL FIRE's fleet, made its debut by dropping an impressive 8,000 gallons of fire retardant on the Record Fire, located in Riverside County.

This mission not only signifies a major milestone for CAL FIRE but also underscores the state's commitment to enhancing its aerial firefighting resources. Tanker 122, equipped with a state-of-the-art 4,000-gallon tank and advanced retardant delivery system, demonstrated its prowess by effectively covering large swathes of the fire area, aiding ground crews in their battle against the flames.

"The successful deployment of Tanker 122 is a game-changer for us," said a spokesperson for CAL FIRE. "This aircraft's ability to deliver such a substantial amount of retardant in a single pass will significantly enhance our firefighting operations, providing critical support to our teams on the ground."

The addition of the C-130H to CAL FIRE's fleet is part of a broader strategy to upgrade aerial firefighting technology, aiming to better protect California's diverse landscapes and communities from the increasing threat of wildfires. The aircraft's advanced systems allow for more precise drops, reducing the risk to both firefighters and the environment while maximizing the effectiveness of fire suppression efforts.

The Record Fire, which has been a challenge due to its size and the rugged terrain it spans, benefited immensely from this aerial intervention. The retardant dropped by Tanker 122 helped to slow the fire's advance, giving ground crews a fighting chance to establish containment lines.