Born a BLACK HAWK® helicopter, the Sikorsky FIREHAWK® aircraft relies on its proven military design to endure the unrelenting physical stresses demanded of the aerial firefighting and utility missions.

Since 2000, the County of Los Angeles Fire Department has proven the operational performance of its S-70A™ FIREHAWK® helicopters, saving untold lives and properties as part of a highly effective air and ground wildland fire attack team.

Now, a new generation S-70i™ FIREHAWK® helicopter brings enhanced capability and flight safety to its high-payload role: extra power margin when dropping water or inserting firefighters at the fire line; 4 g maneuverability when fully loaded; a stronger airframe; and greater water drop control.

A true multi-mission aircraft, the FIREHAWK helicopter can be quickly reconfigured in flight for search and rescue, hoist rescues and medical transport, even with its 1,000-gallon (3,785 L) external water tank still attached.

In 2019, the State of California’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), LA County and the City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department all added the S-70i FIREHAWK aircraft to their firefighting fleets.