The County of Los Angeles Fire Department has signed a contract with Sikorsky for two S-70i FIREHAWK aircraft. The LAFD has been using FIREHAWK helicopters since the early 2000s to fight wildfires, conduct medical evacuations, search and rescue, and disaster relief missions.
“The FIREHAWK helicopter has been the cornerstone of our aerial firefighting capability for more than two decades,” said County of Los Angeles Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone. “Adding two more proven platforms enhances our ability to respond to all types of emergency situations across the county and contain wildfires before they get out of control, even under the most challenging conditions.”
“We appreciate the confidence that the County of Los Angeles Fire Department places in Sikorsky to advance its lifesaving mission,” commented Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager. “These new helicopters reinforce a partnership that began in the late 1990s and continues to set the standard for aerial wildfire and emergency response around the globe.”
The S-70i FIREHAWK features a 1,000-gallon water tank with a retractable snorkel, twin turbine engines capable of up to 155 knots and 10,000 feet, night vision compatible flight controls, and multi-mission flexibility with quick reconfiguration for hoist rescues, air medical transport, crew haul, or aerial reconnaissance.
The FIREHAWK is also used by six other agencies in California: the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), Kern County Fire Department, Orange County Fire Authority, San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, Santa Barbara County Fire Department, and the Ventura County Fire Department.
Photo: Lockheed Martin
