CAL FIRE and Sikorsky partner on autonomous helicopter development

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) has partnered with Sikorsky to research and develop the potential of autonomous aerial firefighting technologies.

The five-year collaboration will see the two organizations work on “developing and integrating cutting-edge technologies” to enhance the “safety and efficacy … of all-hazard emergency response”.

This will include collaborating on the development of an autonomous Sikorsky S-70i Firehawk, with the aim of “reducing pilot workload, improve situational awareness, and give first responders the flexibility to perform complex missions in dangerous and deteriorating environments”.

A game-changing technology

Sikorsky previously conducted exercises in Southern California in April, in partnership with Rain, to demonstrate the potential of autonomous helicopter technology for aerial firefighting.

"The development of autonomous wildfire suppression capabilities will be a game-changer in our efforts to protect communities from the growing threat of wildfires,” said Rich Benton, Sikorsky Vice President and General Manager. “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.”

“CAL FIRE is excited to collaborate with Sikorsky and determine how their advanced technologies could benefit our helicopter and uncrewed aerial system programs,” added Steve Robinson, Assistant Deputy Director, Aviation and Mobile Equipment at CAL FIRE.

CAL FIRE announced its acquisition of two new Firehawks last month.