Vallfirest introduces new Dronster with expanded safety and efficiency features

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Vallfirest unveils enhanced Dronster for emergency operations

Vallfirest has introduced an upgraded version of its Dronster multi-emergency robot, designed for hazardous environments such as wildfires, industrial incidents, and chemical risks.

The remote-controlled machine features a 59 HP Stage V engine and a compact build that is 30 cm narrower than comparable models.

It operates at a range of up to 150 metres and is equipped with safety measures, including an emergency stop button.

Multi-purpose functionality for various emergency scenarios

The Dronster is designed to handle multiple tasks with its ability to operate three tools simultaneously.

It supports front and rear attachments as well as an extinguishing monitor, allowing for versatility in fire suppression, forestry management, and industrial operations.

The robot can be fitted with implements such as trenchers for firebreaks, snowploughs for winter operations, and rear shovels for clearing combustible materials.

Its hydraulic connection system allows for quick tool changes depending on the emergency requirements.

Designed for safety and efficiency in hazardous environments

The remote-control system allows operators to manage the Dronster from a safe distance, reducing exposure to dangerous conditions.

With total traction and the ability to function on demanding slopes, it is engineered to work effectively in unstable terrain.

The machine incorporates a double cooling system, overturning protection, and an anti-debris protective body to enhance durability and performance in extreme conditions.

Its low fuel consumption also contributes to prolonged operational efficiency.

Mobility and deployment options for rapid response

Weighing 1,450 kg, the Dronster is built for mobility.

It can be transported via helicopter or on compact double-axle trailers for rapid deployment in emergency situations.

The machine’s design includes a high chassis for overcoming obstacles and four anchoring points for aerial transportation.

Its remote usability and wide range of movement make it adaptable for both urban and remote incident responses.

Upgraded Dronster multi-emergency robot enhances response capabilities: Summary

Vallfirest has released an upgraded version of its Dronster multi-emergency robot, designed to support emergency response operations in hazardous environments.

The remote-controlled machine features a 59 HP Stage V engine, a compact build, and a 150-metre operating range.

It can handle multiple tasks with three simultaneous tool operations, supporting various attachments such as trenchers, snowploughs, and extinguishing monitors.

The Dronster is equipped with safety features including an emergency stop button, overturning protection, and an anti-debris body.

Designed for use in wildfires, industrial incidents, and chemical risk scenarios, the robot operates efficiently on rough terrain with total traction and a double cooling system.

Its lightweight construction allows for easy transportation by helicopter or trailer, ensuring rapid deployment in emergency situations.

Rosenbauer: Robau moves towards majority ownership following regulatory approvals

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Regulatory approvals advance Robau’s majority shareholding in Rosenbauer

According to documents published by Rosenbauer, it is understood that Robau Beteiligungsverwaltung GmbH has received approvals from competition authorities in the European Union and the United States for its acquisition of a majority stake in Rosenbauer International AG.

The process is nearing completion, with only clearances in four countries outstanding.

These are expected in the first quarter of 2025.

It is stated in the documents that Robau has signed agreements to acquire 50.1% of Rosenbauer’s shares.

The transaction includes purchasing shares held by RVG NewCo GmbH and subscribing to newly issued shares through a capital increase.

Regulatory clearances are a prerequisite for finalising the deal.

Robau to acquire controlling stake in Rosenbauer

According to the documents, Robau, a consortium of Pierer Industrie AG, Mark Mateschitz Beteiligungs GmbH, Raiffeisen Beteiligungsholding GmbH and Invest Unternehmensbeteiligungs AG, has structured its acquisition through two key transactions.

First, it will acquire 1,710,200 bearer shares in Rosenbauer from RVG NewCo GmbH.

Second, it will subscribe to 3,400,000 new shares issued as part of a capital increase.

These steps will bring Robau’s ownership to 50.1% of Rosenbauer’s total shares, giving it majority control.

Mandatory offer to Rosenbauer shareholders

Documents from Rosenbauer indicate that under Austrian takeover law, Robau has submitted an anticipatory mandatory offer to acquire all outstanding Rosenbauer shares not already owned by the bidder, affiliated entities or shareholders who have opted out.

The offer is priced at €35 per share.

It was published in January 2025 and remains subject to the remaining regulatory approvals.

The acceptance period runs until 14 February 2025, with a possible three-month extension.

Completion expected in early 2025

Rosenbauer’s documents state that regulatory approvals have been granted in key markets, including the EU and the US.

The outstanding clearances in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait are expected in the coming months.

Once the final regulatory conditions are met, the capital increase and share acquisition will be completed, giving Robau majority ownership of Rosenbauer.

It is understood that the process is expected to conclude in the first quarter of 2025.

Rosenbauer: Robau moves towards majority ownership following regulatory approvals – Summary

According to documents published by Rosenbauer, Robau Beteiligungsverwaltung GmbH is finalising its acquisition of a 50.1% stake in Rosenbauer International AG.

The transaction involves acquiring shares from RVG NewCo GmbH and subscribing to newly issued shares through a capital increase.

The documents indicate that regulatory approvals have already been secured in the EU and US, with final clearances pending in four countries.

The process has triggered a mandatory offer for remaining Rosenbauer shares at €35 per share, with the acceptance period running until 14 February 2025.

It is understood that the transaction is expected to be completed in early 2025 following the fulfilment of regulatory conditions.

Growth in armoured vehicles AFES market driven by fire safety advancements

by Featured NewsResearchVehicles

Market for armoured vehicles AFES set for steady growth

The global market for Armored Vehicles Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems (AFES) was valued at $101.8 million in 2024 and is forecasted to grow to $121.7 million by 2030, according to a report published by Global Industry Analysts.

The market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.0% during this period.

The report highlights that increased investment in defence safety systems and technological advancements in fire suppression are contributing to this growth.

The use of AFES in military and law enforcement vehicles is expected to rise due to growing concerns over fire hazards caused by combat threats, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and projectile strikes.

Importance of AFES in armoured vehicle safety

AFES plays a critical role in protecting military personnel by automatically detecting and suppressing fires in armored vehicles.

The systems use various extinguishing agents such as Halon, dry chemicals, or clean agents to control fire outbreaks within seconds.

The need for AFES is driven by the risks associated with modern combat environments.

Vehicles deployed in high-threat zones face fire hazards from both external attacks and internal system malfunctions.

AFES helps mitigate these risks by ensuring rapid fire suppression, reducing the chances of vehicle damage and personnel casualties.

Technological advancements in AFES

Advancements in sensor technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are improving AFES efficiency.

Modern systems incorporate infrared and ultraviolet sensors, allowing for faster fire detection.

AI integration is also enhancing predictive maintenance, enabling vehicles to detect potential fire risks before ignition.

The industry is also shifting towards eco-friendly extinguishing agents.

These alternatives aim to reduce environmental impact while maintaining fire suppression effectiveness.

As defense forces worldwide adopt greener technologies, the demand for sustainable AFES solutions is expected to increase.

Regional market insights and growth trends

The United States remains a key market for AFES, with a valuation of $27.6 million in 2024.

China is projected to expand at a 2.8% CAGR, reaching $19.3 million by 2030.

Growth is also evident in Europe, with markets in Germany, France, Italy, and the UK showing steady demand.

The report identifies that Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) are expected to drive a significant portion of market growth, with projections reaching $70.5 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 3.3%.

Tanks and other fighting vehicles are anticipated to grow at 2.6% CAGR over the same period.

Global armored vehicles AFES market projected to reach $121.7 million by 2030: Summary

The global market for Armored Vehicles Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems (AFES) was valued at $101.8 million in 2024 and is expected to reach $121.7 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.0%.

According to Global Industry Analysts, this growth is driven by increasing defense investments and advancements in fire suppression technology.

AFES enhances vehicle and personnel safety by detecting and suppressing fires caused by combat threats and system malfunctions.

The adoption of AI, advanced sensors, and eco-friendly extinguishing agents is improving system efficiency.

The US market was valued at $27.6 million in 2024, while China is projected to grow at a 2.8% CAGR, reaching $19.3 million by 2030.

The APC segment is expected to reach $70.5 million by 2030 with a 3.3% CAGR.

Rosenbauer deliver 100th RTE Robot to Munich

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentVehicles

Rosenbauer handed over the 100th RTE Robot to the district of Munich, alongside its regional sales partner BAS.

The anniversary vehicle will go to the Gräfelfing Volunteer Fire Department. The RTE Robot is based on the 800 chassis (payload: 625 kg) and is equipped with a T5 remote control including video transmission, an RM15 thrower module (1,600 l/min) and a positive pressure fan that can be operated together with the thrower. The fire department will install a larger fan on another empty base module.

Before placing the order, a comprehensive market survey was conducted, during which all candidates underwent practical testing. The RTE Robot was chosen for its compact design (pallet size), off-road capability, modularity, and versatility, leading to Rosenbauer being awarded the contract.

Munich District Fire Inspection’s statement

Munich District Fire Inspection spoke on the arrival of the RTE Robot saying: “With the delivery of the third RTE Robot to the Gräfelfing Fire Department, the Munich district now has excellent area coverage in case of emergencies.

“This location was the missing piece identified during the evaluation of applications from fire departments two years ago, ensuring efficient coverage of the western and southwestern parts of the district,”

Features of the robot

The Munich District acquired three fully equipped RTE Robots. Heimstetten, Hohenbrunn, and Gräfelfing were chosen as bases. The first two devices were ordered in 2023 and delivered in March 2024. In June 2024, the district placed the order for the third RTE Robot, stationed in Gräfelfing.

Each RTE Robot order included the chassis with thrower module, ventilation module, and a module for transporting roll containers, including roll containers from Rosenbauer. These RTE Robots can function as fire-fighting robots, ventilators, smoke extractors, and for transporting heavy equipment in difficult terrain. The modules can be quickly and easily swapped at the site without tools or effort.

During the procurement phase, the specific needs of the fire departments were taken into account, and practical experience was incorporated into the design. After delivery, a development partnership was established with the Heimstetten and Hohenbrunn fire departments to test new accessories in practice and implement feedback into technical improvements.

Area Sales Manager Equipment/ Firefighting Systems, Rosenbauer Germany, Martin Lazar’s statement

Martin Lazar, Area Sales Manager/ Firefighting Systems at Rosenbauer Germany said: “The 100th RTE Robot for the Munich District represents our ongoing innovation and close collaboration with fire departments.

“It is a great honor to be part of this development and to see how our technologies make a real difference in action.”

Over 100 RTE Robots have now been produced, more than half of which were assembled in 2024. The roll containers are manufactured in Neidling, while the assembly of the tracked vehicles and superstructure modules takes place in Leonding.

In addition to Germany, the RTE Robots are already in use by fire departments in Austria, Denmark, Singapore, the Philippines, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia and the USA.

Munich District has recieved the 100th RTE Robot from Rosenbauer: Summary

Rosenbauer has delivered the 100th RTE Robot to the district of Munich, a moment that has been recognised by Rosenbauer as being a great honour and a chance to see the impact of their technology in action.

Magirus transitions ownership from Iveco Group to Mutares

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Magirus GmbH ownership transfer finalised

Magirus GmbH has announced that its full ownership and that of its affiliates were officially transferred from Iveco Group N.V. to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA as of 3 January 2025.

This transaction follows the terms of the agreement announced on 13 March 2024.

Business and service activities under Magirus will continue without disruption.

The transition is set to open a new chapter for the company as it moves forward under Mutares’ ownership.

Thomas Hilse appointed interim CEO

To ensure a seamless transition, Thomas Hilse will assume the role of Interim-CEO from 4 January 2025.

Hilse has led Magirus since 2021 as President of the Firefighting Business Unit at Iveco Group.

He will oversee the transfer of operations and guide the company through this transition.

Hilse’s extensive experience and in-depth understanding of Magirus’ operations are expected to be key in managing the ownership change.

Leadership to support transformation

In addition to Hilse’s leadership, Mutares has appointed Fatmir Veselaj as Chief Restructuring Officer (CRO).

Veselaj, a restructuring expert, will work closely with the executive team to guide the company’s transformation.

Hilse remarked: “We are welcoming Mutares as new owner in order to fully explore the opportunities in the transformation of this great company.”

Confidence in the future under Mutares

Johannes Laumann, CIO of Mutares, expressed optimism about the leadership changes, stating: “We are thrilled that Thomas has accepted our offer to continue guiding Magirus GmbH through this important transition.”

Laumann emphasised the value of Hilse’s leadership and experience in ensuring a smooth integration of Magirus into Mutares.

Magirus GmbH acquired by Mutares as Thomas Hilse assumes interim CEO role: Summary

The ownership of Magirus GmbH has transitioned from Iveco Group N.V. to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA, effective 3 January 2025.

Business operations will continue without interruption.

Thomas Hilse, previously President of Magirus’ Firefighting Business Unit, has been appointed Interim-CEO to oversee the transition.

He will work alongside Chief Restructuring Officer Fatmir Veselaj to guide the company’s transformation.

Mutares CIO Johannes Laumann expressed confidence in Hilse’s leadership during this critical phase.

Iveco Group firefighting business leadership change as Thomas Hilse departs

by Featured NewsPeopleVehicles

Leadership change in Iveco Group firefighting business unit

Iveco Group has announced the departure of Thomas Hilse, President of the Firefighting Business Unit and CEO of Magirus GmbH.

Hilse, who has held these positions since 2021, is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities.

Transition of Magirus GmbH to Mutares SE

As reported by Iveco Group, Hilse played a crucial role in ensuring continuity during the transition of Magirus GmbH to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA.

This transition was the subject of a separate announcement made earlier today.

CEO’s statement on Hilse’s departure

Olof Persson, CEO of Iveco Group, expressed gratitude for Hilse’s contributions.

He stated: “I want to thank Thomas for his passion, hard work and leadership. On behalf of everyone at Iveco Group, we wish him continued success in his future professional endeavours.”

Overview of Iveco Group

Iveco Group operates seven distinct brands, including IVECO, FPT Industrial, and ASTRA.

As of 31st December 2023, the company employs over 36,000 people across 20 industrial sites and 31 research and development centres worldwide.

Iveco Group firefighting business leadership change as Thomas Hilse departs: Summary

Thomas Hilse, President of the Firefighting Business Unit at Iveco Group and CEO of Magirus GmbH, has left his role effective immediately.

Hilse’s tenure, which began in 2021, included overseeing the launch of the new MAGIRUS fire truck portfolio.

He also ensured a smooth transition of Magirus GmbH to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA.

CEO Olof Persson acknowledged Hilse’s leadership and wished him success.

Iveco Group, headquartered in the Netherlands, operates seven key brands across commercial vehicles, industrial technologies, and financing.

North Fire appoints Terry Johnson to oversee firefighting vehicle projects in the Middle East

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeopleVehicles

Terry Johnson brings decades of firefighting experience to North Fire

Yorkshire-based North Fire has announced the appointment of Terry Johnson as head of its MENA region, where he will lead the firm’s firefighting vehicle projects in the Middle East.

Johnson’s career began in 1978 with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

In 1989, he took a training role with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.

Later, he served as a senior fire service advisor with Dubai Civil Defense for 12 years.

North Fire’s managing director, Oliver North, stated: “Terry brings a level of experience and local understanding for the MENA region which I genuinely think is unparalleled in the sector.”

New vehicle concept in development for MENA region

North Fire recently revealed its new rapid intervention vehicle (RIV) from its UK headquarters as part of a fire service contract.

Further contracts in the RIV space are anticipated in the coming months.

The company has also begun developing a new firefighting vehicle concept tailored to the demands of the MENA region.

This vehicle is scheduled for launch in Autumn 2025.

Johnson will work closely with North Fire’s engineering and production teams on this project.

Johnson’s vision for firefighting vehicles in the Middle East

Commenting on his appointment, Johnson said: “Throughout my career, I’ve been obsessed with ensuring the firefighter is equipped with the most relevant and effective vehicles and equipment possible, to aid their ability to save life more efficiently.”

He added: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to influence the raising of the bar of firefighting vehicle technology, specific to the region I know so well.”

Reaffirming commitment to the region

Johnson emphasised his ongoing dedication to the MENA region, stating: “I would like to clarify that I will not be leaving the region.

“As the current Regional President of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), I will dedicate my efforts to enhancing our focus on the broader region.”

He added: “My priorities include increasing membership and raising awareness of the benefits available to all fire and related entities.

“Additionally, I will concentrate on supporting emergency response initiatives and addressing associated challenges, particularly on sharing best practices and promoting integrity within the field.”

IFSJ Leaders in Fire and Safety Conference

Johnson will return as chair of the IFSJ Leaders in Fire and Safety Conference on 8 May 2025 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Dubai Marina.

The one-day event will bring together senior leaders, technical specialists, and policy advisers to discuss fire safety and emergency response improvements – register your interest in attending here: https://ifsjleadersinfireandsafety.com/registration-2025/.

North Fire appoints Terry Johnson to oversee firefighting vehicle projects in the Middle East: Summary

North Fire has appointed Terry Johnson as head of its MENA region to oversee upcoming firefighting vehicle projects tailored to the Middle East.

Johnson, a seasoned professional with extensive firefighting and advisory experience, will collaborate with North Fire’s engineering team to develop next-generation vehicles.

The company recently launched a new rapid intervention vehicle and is set to unveil a vehicle concept for the MENA region later in 2025.

Johnson will also chair the IFSJ Leaders in Fire and Safety Conference in Dubai.

Magirus delivers first smartcontrol turntable ladder to Offenbach fire department

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Magirus introduces smartcontrol technology in firefighting

Magirus has delivered the first M32L-AS SC articulated turntable ladder featuring SmartControl technology to the Offenbach am Main fire department in Germany.

This marks the initial deployment of the SmartControl system, designed to enhance firefighting operations with improved ergonomics, safety, and efficiency.

According to Magirus, the system enables precise and intuitive control, supporting emergency services during operations.

Innovative smartfunctions enhance operational precision

The SmartControl system includes advanced features to assist firefighters, such as automated ladder alignment and the Magirus CageControl system, allowing easy cage and ladder manoeuvring in multiple directions.

Other features, like the FacadeFunction, ensure precise operations near building facades, and the integrated camera system provides up to four simultaneous views for enhanced visibility.

The system’s automation and improved interface aim to simplify complex tasks, reducing operational strain while maintaining accuracy and safety.

Technical advancements in turntable ladder design

The M32L-AS SC ladder incorporates ergonomic controls, such as the Magirus RescuePilot and ClassicPilot systems, for intuitive, sensitive handling.

Its single-extension ladder and Magirus DirectEntry system further streamline deployment during emergencies.

Additional updates include a high-resolution, networked display in the control cabin, offering operators a comprehensive overview.

Offenbach’s investment in future-proof firefighting technology

Offenbach’s fire department aims to enhance safety and sustainability through the adoption of SmartControl technology.

According to Klaus Grimm, head of the technical department, this acquisition represents a shift towards modern, adaptable firefighting equipment.

The two-axle chassis design enhances manoeuvrability, and the technology’s adaptability ensures it can be updated to meet evolving requirements.

Magirus delivers first smartcontrol turntable ladder to Offenbach fire department: Summary

Magirus has introduced its first turntable ladder equipped with SmartControl technology, delivering it to the Offenbach am Main fire department.

This system provides ergonomic controls, automated functions, and enhanced visibility to support firefighters in precise and efficient operations.

Offenbach’s investment prioritises sustainability, with the new ladder designed to be adaptable to future firefighting needs.

Hesse receives 60 Ziegler LF 10 firefighting vehicles

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Another major milestone in Hesse firefighting capabilities

On 3 December 2024, the final LF 10 vehicle from the 11th Hesse state procurement was delivered to the municipality of Ober-Ramstadt.

This delivery marked the completion of an order for 60 LF 10 vehicles procured between 2021 and 2024.

Ziegler has now delivered 280 LF 10 vehicles to municipalities in Hesse under five separate state procurements over the last 12 years.

Independently of the state procurement, Ober-Ramstadt also ordered two additional vehicles: an HLF 20 and an StLF 20-V tailored for vegetation fire response.

Plans underway for the 12th Hesse state procurement

The Hessian Ministry of the Interior, Security and Homeland Protection has awarded Ziegler the contract for the next major procurement campaign.

This initiative will run from 2024 to 2026, delivering up to 50 LF 10 vehicles built on MAN TGM 13.250 or 13.290 chassis.

The prototype vehicle for this series is in production and will be delivered in early 2025.

Key features include Ziegler’s ALPAS and Z-Control systems, offering reliable and user-friendly technology for firefighters.

Customised configurations will also be available to meet the specific needs of individual municipalities.

Tailored equipment and operational efficiency

The vehicles are equipped with a 1,200-litre water tank with drinking water protection and a Ziegler FPN 10-2000-1H pump.

Additional features include portable pump lifts, front spray bars for vegetation fires, and Z-Vision lighting systems.

These options are designed to enhance operational capabilities while maintaining cost-efficiency through standardised production processes.

The Z-Cab accommodates a crew of up to nine personnel, and the vehicles meet EURO 6 emission standards.

Summary: 60 Ziegler firefighting vehicles delivered to Hesse

Ziegler has completed the delivery of 60 LF 10 firefighting vehicles to Hesse as part of the 11th state procurement initiative, spanning 2021 to 2024.

This milestone concludes the supply of 280 vehicles to the region over 12 years.

A new procurement for up to 50 vehicles has been awarded to Ziegler by the Hessian Ministry of the Interior.

This programme, running from 2024 to 2026, will include advanced features like ALPAS and Z-Control systems.

The vehicles will also be tailored to meet specific municipal needs, ensuring flexibility and efficiency.

Upgraded Chinook helicopter boosts firefighting capabilities in NSW

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsVehiclesWildland Fire

Upgraded Chinook enhances water capacity and night operations

The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has announced upgrades to its CH-47 Chinook helicopter, enhancing its ability to combat fires across the state.

The Chinook now features an internal tank capable of holding 11,000 litres of water.

This replaces a temporary 10,000-litre bucket, enabling faster water refills, improved safety, and the ability to conduct night-time operations when fire intensity is generally lower.

The upgrade provides a permanent solution for aerial firefighting, making the Chinook the largest water-carrying firefighting helicopter in Australia, second only to the Boeing 737 Large Air Tanker in the RFS fleet.

Expanded aerial fleet supports fire response across NSW

The Chinook is part of the RFS’s extensive aerial firefighting fleet, which is the largest in Australia.

This season’s fleet includes the Boeing 737 ‘Marie Bashir’, two Cessna Citations, one King Air fixed-wing aircraft, and six Bell 412 helicopters.

Operating from multiple bases, including Richmond, Dubbo, Coffs Harbour, and Cooma, the fleet is further supplemented by over 200 additional aircraft available through the National Aerial Firefighting Centre and other agreements.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: “This new capability to safely conduct aerial waterbombing at night is a game-changer for our response, allowing for faster turnarounds and greater capacity to protect people and properties.”

Strategic partnerships strengthen firefighting readiness

The Chinook operates as part of a strategic partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force, using RAAF Base Richmond as its home base.

This collaboration enhances NSW’s ability to deploy robust and versatile firefighting resources as needed.

Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service Rob Rogers stated: “The RFS is prepared to deploy our robust and versatile fleet wherever and whenever needed to protect communities and respond swiftly to fires across NSW.”

The helicopter has already proven its value in combatting fires across New South Wales, marking its role as one of the few Chinooks globally used for firefighting.

Encouragement for community readiness

As the summer months approach, the RFS is urging residents to prepare their properties and emergency plans.

Minister Dib said: “We can never be too prepared for summer, and the upgraded Chinook makes the RFS aerial fleet even stronger in the fight against fires.”

He added: “Communities across the state should also do their bit by checking the readiness of their properties and their plan in the event of an emergency.”

Upgraded Chinook helicopter boosts firefighting capabilities in NSW: Summary

The NSW Rural Fire Service has enhanced its firefighting capabilities with upgrades to the CH-47 Chinook helicopter, increasing its water capacity to 11,000 litres and enabling night-time operations.

The Chinook, part of Australia’s largest state firefighting fleet, now provides a safer and more efficient response to fires.

Supported by the Royal Australian Air Force and over 200 additional aircraft, the RFS is prepared for the upcoming summer season.

Authorities are urging communities to prepare their properties and emergency plans to mitigate fire risks.