Autonomous Black Hawk tests advanced aerial firefighting with Rain and Sikorsky

Sikorsky and Rain conducted live-fire tests of autonomous wildfire suppression in late April in southern California. Using a Black Hawk helicopter equipped with Sikorsky’s MATRIX autonomy system and Rain’s planning software, the tests demonstrated autonomous detection and suppression of early-stage wildfires on propane and brush piles.

Operating at 3,300ft in wind gusts of up to 30kts, the aircraft used fly-by-wire controls, thermal and vision cameras, and a satellite data link. Rain’s software enabled a ground operator to manage tasks via tablet, including water sourcing, fire detection, flight planning, and water drops. The helicopter carried a 324gal Bambi Bucket, drawing from a 189,000gal tank provided by Wildfire Water Solutions.

Conducted with the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, the two-week trial included 24 flight hours and was observed by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), and the US Forest Service. The aircraft flew autonomously under safety pilot supervision, with manual control available if needed. Joint operations with a crewed Sikorsky S-76 showcased coordination between piloted and autonomous aircraft.

The tested helicopter is similar to the S-70 Firehawks used by CAL FIRE, which currently has three more on order to add to its existing fleet.

“These initial attack flight tests on early-stage wildfires were of the highest value to Rain and Sikorsky as we mature our combined autonomy solution, and a great first step for aerial firefighters to learn how autonomy can help a pilot suppress wildfire with greater safety and accuracy,” said Maxwell Brodie, CEO of Alameda, California-based Rain. “We thank California’s firefighters for their considerable interest to help us showcase the benefits of autonomy as a tool to support the safety, efficacy, and efficiency of wildfire response.”

The demonstration was supported in part by a PG&E research and development grant.

Sikorsky and Bristow Group recently signed a long-term S-92 fleet agreement.