The California state fire agency is partnering with rotorcraft manufacturer Sikorsky to explore how autonomous vertical-lift solutions can improve wildfire response.
Under a five-year initiative announced on 3 September, Sikorsky and CalFire plan to test the integration of autonomy-enabled aircraft into firefighting operations. Through the project they aim to reduce pilot workload, improve situational awareness and give first responders better options for operating in dangerous and deteriorating conditions, including periods of limited visibility.
In particular, the partnership will explore development of Sikorsky’s autonomous-capable S-70i Firehawk, a firefighting derivative of the company’s prolific UH-60 Black Hawk military helicopter.
Sikorsky says the rotorcraft’s military origins make it uniquely robust and suited for operating in harsh conditions common to wildfire suppression flights. The medium-twin can fly at speeds up to 155kt (287km/h), operate in high winds and reach altitudes of 10,000ft – a useful asset in a region where much of the mountainous interior is higher than 5,000ft.
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