CAL FIRE Adds New C-130 Aircraft to Boost Southern California Wildfire Response

CAL FIRE is strengthening its firefighting capabilities with a powerful addition to its aerial fleet — a new C-130 aircraft that will be permanently stationed in Southern California.

This latest C-130 can carry over 4,000 gallons of fire retardant — more than three times the capacity of the smaller S-2T aircraft — making it a critical asset in battling large and fast-moving wildfires. It is the third C-130 to join CAL FIRE's arsenal and the first assigned to the region full-time.

“This is going to be a game changer,” said a CAL FIRE captain. “Not only for San Diego but for the entire region. Our goal is to keep 95% of fires to 10 acres or less.”

The new aircraft will be based in Ramona near San Diego, but starting August 1, the air base will undergo major renovations. During the upgrades, the C-130 will refill from a nearby base in Riverside, ensuring continued regional readiness.

With fires like the recent Owanga blaze threatening communities across Riverside County and beyond, officials say this boost in capacity and speed will save time, resources, and potentially lives during peak fire season.

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