Governor Gavin Newsome | Twitter Website
California has bolstered its firefighting capabilities by adding a second C-130 Hercules airtanker to its aerial firefighting fleet. This announcement was made by Governor Gavin Newsom in anticipation of the upcoming peak fire season. The state now strengthens its firefighting arsenal, which is the largest of its kind globally, to better protect communities from the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires.
The introduction of this second C-130 Hercules, known as Tanker 121, is part of a broader initiative to enhance California's aerial firefighting resources. Last year, California marked a milestone by becoming the first state to operate a C-130H airtanker for wildfire suppression. The first C-130H has been active in firefighting operations in Los Angeles, taking on 90 missions that combated 36 fires and dispersed over 253,000 gallons of retardant.
The transition of these aircraft to CAL FIRE was facilitated through the efforts of state and federal leaders. Governor Newsom acknowledged the contributions of U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, the late U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, and Representative Ken Calvert for their role in accelerating the deployment of these firefighting assets.
"The largest aerial firefighting force in the world is getting even bigger. Thanks to our champions in Congress – Senator Padilla, Representative Calvert, and the late, great Senator Feinstein – California’s second C-130 airtanker is ready to take flight, just in time ahead of peak fire season," stated Governor Gavin Newsom at a hangar in Sacramento.
Additionally, Senator Padilla highlighted the significance of the state's enhanced firefighting capabilities, emphasizing California's quick response to wildfires in challenging conditions. "The completed transfer of federal C-130 airtankers to CAL FIRE is equipping California’s firefighters with significantly expanded capabilities to protect vulnerable communities from wildfires and save lives," said Senator Padilla.
Representative Ken Calvert added, "The C-130 Hercules aircraft that have been transferred from the federal government to CAL FIRE are game changing additions to our wildfire response aviation arsenal." He emphasized the bipartisan efforts that made this transfer possible.
The C-130 program has seen extensive collaboration with the U.S. Air Force and Coast Guard, who helped maintain the aircraft. Modifications made to these planes include installing a 4,000-gallon tank and a retardant delivery system.
CAL FIRE Director Joe Tyler remarked, "Placing the second C-130H airtanker into service is another milestone in ensuring Californians are protected from the growing threat of wildfire."
In addition to expanding the fleet, California has also heavily invested in innovative technologies and preventative measures to combat wildfires more efficiently. This includes utilizing advanced technology like artificial intelligence and satellites for detection and proactive management of forested areas.
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