Sikorsky and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) have announced an initiative that will see the two organisations collaborate to develop an autonomous aerial firefighting platform based on the S-70i FIREHAWK. The five-year collaboration will focus on developing and integrating technologies. The collaboration will be based on the idea that autonomous aircraft will reduce pilot workload, improve situational awareness, and give first responders the flexibility to perform complex missions in dangerous and deteriorating conditions, day or night.
“The CAL FIRE Aviation Program prioritises safety of air operations and ensures our flight crews have the proper training, equipment, and advanced technologies for maximum effectiveness on all-risk missions,” said Steve Robinson, Assistant Deputy Director, Aviation and Mobile Equipment, CAL FIRE. “CAL FIRE is excited to collaborate with Sikorsky and determine how their advanced technologies could benefit our Helicopter and Uncrewed Aerial System Programs.”
The announcement follows a series of trials and exercises aimed at demonstrating the effectiveness of autonomous aircraft in helping crewed and uncrewed aircraft find and suppress early-stage wildfires.
In addition, Pilots from CAL FIRE, the Los Angeles County Fire Department, and Orange County Fire Authority also experienced the optionally piloted aircraft at Sikorsky’s facility in Stratford, Connecticut, and provided feedback to tailor these new capabilities for firefighting operations.
Image: CAL FIRE
