Victoria welcomes new Black Hawk helicopter

The Australian state of Victoria has added a Black Hawk helicopter to improve its fleet of firefighting aircraft.

The Black Hawk is capable of holding up to 4,000 liters of water and dropping fire retardant and foam.

Victoria is now prepared for potential fires over the summer season, with over 50 aircraft positioned around the state. The fleet also includes two Large Air Tankers, a CH47 Chinook, and other Type 1 helicopters, including a Super Puma and an Air Crane.

The most recent Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for the summer indicates that Victoria will experience normal fire potential for the north and west, with an increased risk of grass fires as conditions dry out.

Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said: “Victoria is well prepared to respond to all types of emergencies this summer. Our aviation fleet is strategically placed across the state, according to risk.

“While many Victorians have been preparing for and responding to floods, it’s important to be prepared for fires, have a plan and never rely on one source of information.”

Earlier this year, a B2 Squirrel was provided by the state of Victoria to safeguard the densely forested Green Triangle region.