US Northern Command has announced the activation of eight C-130 military transport planes to aid in firefighting operations in Los Angeles. These planes, equipped with Modular Aerial Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS), will be deployed from Nevada, Wyoming, and Colorado to the Channel Islands in Southern California.
The crews accompanying the planes will join other MAFFS-equipped aircraft in California to bolster firefighting capabilities. Some of the aircraft are expected to be operational as early as Friday, with all planes ready for action by Sunday.
Gen. Gregory Guillot, Commander of US Northern Command, emphasized the importance of supporting civil authorities in times of crisis. He highlighted the readiness of the military to assist FEMA, NIFC, and the state of California in addressing the needs of affected citizens.
MAFFS are innovative fire retardant delivery systems that can be easily installed in C-130 cargo planes, transforming them into effective air tankers. These systems offer rapid response capabilities, enabling a quick surge in wildfire suppression efforts.
Capable of dropping up to 3,000 gallons of fire retardant in under five seconds, MAFFS-equipped planes can be swiftly refilled in less than 12 minutes, as confirmed by the US Forest Service. This deployment of military assets underscores the collaborative approach to combating wildfires and protecting communities in California.
