CAL FIRE is now the "world's largest aerial firefighting fleet".
Governor Newsom announced the addition of two new Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters in a press conference Thursday, bringing CAL FIRE's total to 16.
The new helicopters can hold 1,000 gallons of water and has 24/7 night vision capabilities according to CAL FIRE's X post.
🚁 California’s FIREHAWK Fleet: 16 Strong and Mission-Ready 🚁
— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) July 31, 2025
Today marks a major milestone for CAL FIRE’s aviation program, recognizing the delivery of two additional Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters, bringing our fleet to 16. CAL FIRE is home to the world’s largest… pic.twitter.com/RdjtjGMuoi
Newsom spoke about the importance of investing in helicopters and other aerial firefighting technologies. He pointed to the thousands of lightning strikes that have occurred across California in recent weeks and that the state is nearing the height of wildfire season.
"At the end of the day, these helicopters are here to serve and support the people of California, both our residents and visitors," Cal Fire Chief Joe Tyler said.
Tyler said that the helicopters will be placed throughout multiple counties across the state, including Placer, Humboldt, Lassen, Mendocino, Lake, Santa Clara, Tehama, San Benito, Tuolumne, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
None of the new Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters are scheduled to be placed in either San Luis Obispo County or Santa Barbara County.
