California officially adds its second largest air tanker to its fire fleet, marking a significant expansion of the state’s wildfire control efforts, which are expected to be a drier-before-than-average summer.
The latest C-130 Hercules Air tanker will be participating in the Cal Fire Aerial Fleet, the second former US Coast Guard cargo plane to be renovated for firefighting purposes.
“We’re looking forward to seeing you in the process of doing things,” said Matt Diaz, president and CEO of the California Forestry Association. “Adding this critical aircraft to the state’s wildfire control Arsenal will save lives and property and improve air quality.”
The aircraft can lower 4,000 gallons of water or fire delay agent to up to 800 miles per deployment in under five seconds, officials said, making it the most capable aircraft in the entire Cal Fire fleet.
The state received the first of the seven refurbished C-130s in August 2024. Since then, the aircraft has fallen into 90 missions, reducing delays by more than 253,000 gallons, Gov. Gavin Newsom said.
Cal Fire’s new C-130 Hercules aircraft will be on display on April 24, 2025 at the Cal Fire Hangar in Sacramento.
The state completed the purchase of the aircraft in December 2023 after passing the National Defense Authorization Act.
If all seven Hercules aircraft are remodeled and ready for services, they will be strategically located at Cal fire bases throughout the state, ensuring they are not far from where they are needed, and not only support wildfire control support, but also support search and rescue efforts and various emergency projects.
California has the largest air-fire fleet in the world. The acquisition of these massive air tankers is the latest in the state’s efforts to prevent future disasters. This latest tool has become even more important following the recent Los Angeles County wildfires.
“One of our state’s most devastating and deadly wildfires just a few months ago emphasizes the urgency of this moment and the urgency to continue making further progress,” Newsom said.
Click here to view more information about the C-130 Hercules.
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