The County of Los Angeles has entered into a new contract with Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, to acquire two additional S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters. The decision comes as wildfire risks continue to grow in the region. The new helicopters are expected to enhance the county’s ability to respond rapidly to wildfires, rescue operations, and emergency medical situations across its 4,000 square mile jurisdiction.
County of Los Angeles Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone said, “The FIREHAWK helicopter has been the cornerstone of our aerial firefighting capability for more than two decades. 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.”
Rich Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager, stated, “We appreciate the confidence that the County of Los Angeles Fire Department places in Sikorsky to advance its lifesaving mission. 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 FIREHAWK fleet has played a key role since the early 2000s in addressing not only wildfires but also medical evacuations, search and rescue missions, and disaster relief efforts throughout California. Features such as a 1,000-gallon water tank with rapid refill capabilities allow quick turnaround during fire suppression activities. Twin turbine engines enable high-speed travel and operation in difficult weather conditions or terrain such as strong winds or canyons. Night vision-compatible controls allow for night-time firefighting when containment opportunities may increase.
Since being adapted from military Black Hawk helicopters at the request of Los Angeles County leaders in the late 1990s, continuous upgrades have shaped FIREHAWK aircraft into versatile assets for emergency response.
Currently, seven agencies in California utilize FIREHAWK helicopters: CAL FIRE (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection), County of Los Angeles Fire Department, Kern County Fire Department, Orange County Fire Authority, San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, Santa Barbara County Fire Department, and Ventura County Fire Department.
Sikorsky’s S-70i FIREHAWK is part of Lockheed Martin's broader strategy called 21st Century Firefighting. This initiative aims to integrate digital technology—including AI-enabled intelligence systems—to support faster decision-making for wildfire management by first responders. Lockheed Martin has also supported related programs outside California; it funded a two-year pilot program with Colorado’s Division of Fire Prevention and Control aimed at demonstrating these advanced solutions.
Lockheed Martin describes itself as a global defense technology company focused on innovation across multiple domains including security technologies.
###
