California Deploys C-130 Airtanker for Wildfires

California has introduced the first of seven retrofitted C-130 Hercules aircraft to its firefighting fleet, marking the state as the first in the U.S. to own and operate this type of advanced firefighting air tanker. These aircraft, transferred from the U.S. Coast Guard, have been equipped with 4,000-gallon tanks and can fly up to 800 miles, providing greater speed and range than existing tankers. The deployment follows years of federal delays and legislative action, including the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023. The C-130s aim to enhance Cal Fire's capability to quickly and effectively tackle wildfires, particularly in keeping fires under 10 acres. The first C-130 is now stationed at McClellan Airtanker Base, with others planned for locations including Fresno and San Diego County.