By: Samantha Reynolds
Ramona Air Attack Base is about to welcome a powerful new asset to its fleet: a former search-and-rescue plane from the U.S. Coast Guard, now repurposed as a fire-fighting tanker. This C-130 air tanker, one of seven joining Cal Fire’s aerial arsenal, marks a significant enhancement in the region’s firefighting capabilities.
Attributed to Ramona Air Attack Base’s aviation battalion chief, Nick Brown, the arrival of the C-130 in San Diego County is a crucial development given the area’s high fire risk and history of major wildfires. With the capacity to deliver approximately 4,000 gallons of fire retardant—over three times that of the current S-2T aircraft—the C-130 promises to be a game-changer in combating wildfires.
According to Cal Fire Captain Brent Pascua, the C-130’s extended range and endurance make it a formidable asset for aerial firefighting operations. Its ability to remain operational for up to eight hours straight, with a mere five to ten minutes downtime for refueling, significantly enhances firefighting efficiency.
Moreover, the C-130’s versatility allows it to adapt to varying wildfire conditions. With the option to split its 4,000-gallon payload into two drops, the aircraft can effectively target multiple fronts of a fire simultaneously. This capability, coupled with its rapid response time and robust crew support, ensures a swift and effective firefighting response.
While the aircraft themselves do not extinguish fires, they play a crucial role in slowing down the spread, enabling ground crews to contain the blaze effectively. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of aerial support in wildfire suppression efforts.
The addition of the C-130 to Ramona Air Attack Base’s fleet signifies a significant step forward in bolstering the region’s firefighting infrastructure. With test runs scheduled for later this year and the plane expected to be operational by the end of the year, anticipation is high for the impact it will have on firefighting operations.
In conclusion, the introduction of the C-130 air tanker heralds a new era in aerial firefighting capabilities for Ramona Air Attack Base and the surrounding region. As wildfires continue to pose significant challenges, this powerful asset promises to be a valuable ally in the ongoing battle against nature’s fury.