Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) have launched a five-year initiative aimed at improving aviation resources for wildfire suppression. The collaboration will focus on developing advanced technologies and integrating them into CAL FIRE operations to strengthen emergency response capabilities.
The partnership is designed to address the increasing threat of wildfires by reducing risks to communities, infrastructure, natural resources, and the economy. As part of this effort, both organizations will explore autonomous features for Sikorsky’s S-70i FIREHAWK helicopter, which plays a central role in CAL FIRE’s fleet. Currently, CAL FIRE operates 16 FIREHAWK helicopters as its primary rotary wing firefighting asset.
Steve Robinson, Assistant Deputy Director of Aviation and Mobile Equipment at CAL FIRE, said: “The CAL FIRE Aviation Program prioritizes safety of air operations and ensures our flight crews have the proper training, equipment, and advanced technologies for maximum effectiveness on all-risk missions. CAL FIRE is excited to collaborate with Sikorsky and determine how their advanced technologies could benefit our Helicopter and Uncrewed Aerial System Programs.”
The initiative also seeks to reduce pilot workload through autonomy-enabled aircraft that can improve situational awareness during complex missions under hazardous conditions. The S-70i FIREHAWK can fly up to 155 knots, operate in high winds, and reach altitudes of up to 10,000 feet.
Rich Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager, commented: "The development of autonomous wildfire suppression capabilities will be a game-changer in our efforts to protect communities from the growing threat of wildfires. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and enhancing the safety and efficacy of operations, this collaboration has the potential to revolutionize the way we respond to wildfires, protecting citizens for generations to come."
In April 2025, Sikorsky conducted exercises in Southern California using its autonomous Black Hawk helicopter to demonstrate how crewed and uncrewed systems could work together in aerial firefighting. Pilots from CAL FIRE as well as local fire departments participated in these tests at Sikorsky’s Stratford facility.
This project continues Sikorsky’s support for California's firefighting community since the 1990s when it developed the specialized FIREHAWK helicopter at the request of state officials. The helicopter features a 1,000-gallon water tank, retractable snorkel system, twin turbine engines, and night vision capability.
Lockheed Martin’s broader program known as “21st Century Firefighting” supports faster decision-making through digital technology integration. This includes fixed-wing firefighting aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules and AI-powered intelligence solutions that deliver near real-time information to first responders. Lockheed Martin has also funded pilot programs with agencies like Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control to test these new approaches.
CAL FIRE’s Aviation Program operates more than 70 fixed-wing and rotor aircraft—the largest aerial firefighting fleet globally—and emphasizes technological innovation for emergency response throughout California.
