New cockpit technology simplifies Helitak Fire Tank operations for pilots
Tabula has launched a partnership with Helitak Fire Fighting Equipment to link aerial drop execution with real-time fireground intelligence.
The Mosgiel-based company announced the integration on 23 April 2026 to connect Helitak Fire Tank hardware with the Tabula FireVision platform.
This system captures and shares targeted drop data in real time to help operators and incident controllers move toward informed action.
Aerial firefighting has traditionally relied on post-drop observation and radio communication to assess the effectiveness of a mission.
The new integration removes this disconnect by allowing operators to capture precise data on where and how drops are deployed.
Information is shared instantly with fireground command to enable faster and more accurate retargeting for follow-up drops.
Manual reporting and interpretation are reduced through this continuous feedback loop between the aircraft and the ground.
Michael Whittaker, CEO & Executive Chairman of Tabula said: “This is about more than capturing data — it’s about making every drop count.
“By connecting what happens in the air with decision-making on the ground, we’re giving fireground teams the information they need to respond faster and more effectively.”
Simplified cockpit operations and data transmission
The integration removes a dedicated screen from the aircraft to reduce cockpit clutter and allow pilots to stay focused on the flight.
Drop data is captured and transmitted automatically through the connected system without the need for additional in-cab hardware.
Detailed operational insight is delivered to fireground teams to strengthen the overall response to fast-moving fire environments.
The joint solution combines Helitak aerial firefighting hardware with the real-time operational visibility of the Tabula platform.
Jason Schellaars, CEO & Chief Engineer said: “We’re always focused on delivering practical, reliable solutions for aerial firefighting operations.
“Working with Tabula allows us to extend the capability of the Helitak Fire Tank by linking it directly into a broader operational system.”
This data-driven approach supports more targeted aerial firefighting as pressure on resources continues to increase.
The partnership aims to improve coordination and reduce waste by closing the loop between execution and intelligence.
TracPlus has published a new white paper examining how aerial agencies can manage the adoption of artificial intelligence with transparency and accountability.
The document, titled AI Makes the Call. Who Answers for It?, provides an industry-informed perspective on the increasing role of automated systems in fire operations.
TracPlus is an operational data infrastructure provider that monitors more than 2,500 wildfire suppression aircraft across 44 countries.
The paper identifies that AI systems are already influencing how decisions are made while governance structures are still in a state of evolution.
National agencies including CAL FIRE, New Zealand’s Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) and Australia’s national aerial firefighting program use the platform as their system of record.
The infrastructure holds more than a billion flight records and collects approximately one million new operational data points every day.
Operational data and human judgment
The white paper highlights how AI systems can change how human judgment is applied during wildland firefighting operations.
Research indicates that the reliability of these tools depends on the quality and visibility of the underlying data.
Todd O’Hara, Chief Commercial Officer at TracPlus, said: “AI is becoming part of the operational toolkit, and that’s a positive development.
“The opportunity for agencies is to introduce it in a way that preserves visibility into what’s happening, why recommendations are being made, and how those decisions play out over time.”
The proposed approach involves running AI recommendations alongside human decisions and maintaining an independent operational record.
Agencies can use this data to establish a baseline and evaluate the performance of new technologies over time.
TracPlus has appointed Todd O’Hara as Chief Executive Officer, with the change taking effect on 1 May 2026.
TracPlus announced the appointment on 17 April 2026 from Auckland, New Zealand.
John O’Hara, Chief Executive Officer since 2024, will become President and will continue to lead strategic partnerships and senior agency relationships.
The company described the move as the conclusion of a six-month leadership transition.
Todd O’Hara has served as Chief Commercial Officer and has been part of the TracPlus executive team since 2020.
The announcement states that he led the company through a period of expansion that included the onboarding of CAL FIRE and the rollout of the FireFlyte solution.
His previous leadership roles included positions at Spidertracks and Airways New Zealand.
He also served earlier with the New Zealand Defence Force.
TracPlus said O’Hara is a pilot and flight instructor rated across helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft and gliders.
TracPlus sets out new executive roles
The company said John O’Hara joined TracPlus as Chairman in 2020 and took on the Chief Executive Officer role in 2024.
As President, he will continue working with Todd O’Hara and the executive team on senior agency engagements and strategic partnerships.
Todd O’Hara said: “Our customers are protecting communities against fires that are getting bigger, faster, and harder to fight every season, and they are being asked to do it with more accountability than ever before.”
“The opportunity in front of us is to keep raising the standard of what the industry can measure, defend, and improve.”
“The team we have is the best in the world at this work, and I am proud to be leading them into what comes next,” he added.
John O’Hara said: “TracPlus has become the system of record the industry depends on.”
“CAL FIRE runs its dispatch, tracking, and billing reconciliation on our platform.”
“Australia and New Zealand’s national fire agencies use it to manage their entire aerial firefighting fleets.”
“That is the foundation we are handing forward, and Todd has been at the centre of building it.”
“This is a natural progression, and the right one.”
“I am looking forward to continuing the work alongside him and the team, focused where I can add the most value for our agency partners,” he added.
Mark Vivian, Chair of the Board, said the Board had full confidence in Todd O’Hara’s leadership as TracPlus moves into its next phase of growth.
Vallfirest has announced in Barcelona on Friday 14 November 2025 a strategic agreement with Heliswiss Ibérica for distribution and after-sales service of its Water Hog bucket across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
According to Vallfirest, Heliswiss Ibérica will manage product distribution, technical assistance and after-sales support for the Water Hog bucket in the region.
The company said the arrangement is intended to shorten delivery times while giving aerial operators a dedicated contact for technical support.
Heliswiss Ibérica is described as a company specialised in aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul, leasing and equipment distribution.
Vallfirest stated that combining its wildland firefighting systems expertise with Heliswiss Ibérica’s aeronautical experience will offer a more complete service to helicopter operators involved in wildfire response.
Water Hog bucket in Vallfirest aerial line
Vallfirest explained that the Water Hog bucket forms part of its Aerial product line for wildland firefighting.
The company said the equipment is designed to address current wildfire conditions, characterised by higher fire intensity, faster spread and more complex logistics.
By positioning the Water Hog bucket within a dedicated aerial portfolio, Vallfirest aims to align the product with the operational needs of helicopter-based firefighting missions.
The firm noted that the bucket is intended for use on helicopters that support wildland firefighting operations across varied terrains and fire environments.
Distribution network focused on wildfire readiness
Vallfirest said the partnership with Heliswiss Ibérica establishes a consolidated distribution network across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
The company reported that this network is set up to provide rapid delivery of Water Hog buckets to customers in the region.
It added that operators will have access to specialised technical assistance through Heliswiss Ibérica’s aeronautical support capabilities.
According to Vallfirest, this structure is designed to improve access to equipment solutions for aerial operators using the Water Hog bucket.
The company stated that the partnership is intended to enhance the operational readiness of helicopters equipped with the Water Hog bucket.
Vallfirest and Heliswiss Ibérica described their shared aim as increasing safety, efficiency and effectiveness in wildland firefighting operations that rely on helicopter deployments.
Leadership perspectives on the partnership
Vallfirest said its leadership views the collaboration as a way to strengthen the value offered to aerial operators in the EMEA market.
Javier Baena, CEO of Vallfirest, said: “We are very pleased to collaborate with Heliswiss Ibérica; their experience in the aeronautical sector and their presence in the EMEA market allow us to strengthen our value proposition for aerial operators.”
The companies highlighted that the arrangement covers both sales and ongoing operational support for the Water Hog bucket.
Xavier Domingo, CEO of Heliswiss Ibérica, stated: “Our commitment is to offer customers complete support—from sales to maintenance—of Vallfirest equipment.
“We aim to ensure that Water Hog buckets are always available and operational, especially when every minute counts in wildfire response.”
Aerial wildfire operators and procurement impact in EMEA
The agreement between Vallfirest and Heliswiss Ibérica is directly relevant to helicopter operators and fleet managers responsible for wildland firefighting across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
According to Vallfirest, the partnership creates a defined distribution route for the Water Hog bucket and links it to a dedicated technical support structure in the aeronautical sector.
For procurement officers and equipment specifiers working with aerial firefighting assets, the presence of a regional after-sales and maintenance partner may influence decisions about bucket systems for contracted or in-house fleets.
The companies’ focus on rapid delivery and specialised technical assistance means that organisations planning for wildfire seasons can factor availability and service coverage for Water Hog buckets into their readiness planning.
Wildland firefighting agencies and emergency response managers that use helicopter support may see practical implications in areas such as equipment uptime, access to repairs and coordination of bucket supply during periods of intense wildfire activity.
The New York Fire Department (FDNY) has reported that it has carried out a weeklong evaluation of drone technology in partnership with the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the US Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL).
The tests, conducted from July 30 2025 in Manhattan, assessed drones approved on the Department of Defense “Blue UAS Cleared List,” which are certified as cyber-secure and compliant with DoD policy.
According to FDNY, the aim was to identify viable alternatives to drones from restricted manufacturers and to provide operational feedback to guide industry improvements.
FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said the department has used drones since March 2017 and now deploys them across all five boroughs.
Tucker said: “The FDNY has fully embraced drone technology.”
He added: “We have been at this a long time, but the technology has evolved. Today, we’re using drones across all five boroughs.”
Autonomous deployment plans for firehouse-based drones
Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, Kaz Daughtry, stated that New York City is preparing to station drones on firehouse rooftops to enable automatic deployment to fire scenes.
According to Daughtry, the concept involves drones launching when a 911 call is received, reaching the incident before firefighters and transmitting live imagery to responding crews.
Daughtry said this would allow incident commanders to conduct a scene assessment while en route, giving them an operational advantage before arrival.
The Deputy Mayor added that the initiative builds on earlier police department programmes, where drones were launched autonomously from multiple precincts to assist in law enforcement operations.
Use of drones in operational firefighting and rescue
FDNY explained that drones are used at every second alarm fire or larger, as well as during rescue operations.
According to the department, drones provide aerial imagery, thermal imaging and heat detection, with video feeds shared citywide to assist in decision-making.
FDNY stated that drones help locate hotspots, assess building stability and identify hazardous areas inaccessible to personnel.
Commissioner Tucker said that expanding drone technology across the city would enhance the department’s ability to arrive with prior situational awareness, improving safety for both firefighters and the public.
Broader public safety applications
Zach Iscol, New York City Emergency Management Commissioner, said drones have also been used for building collapse assessments, storm damage mapping and beach monitoring.
Iscol stated that drones assist lifeguards in identifying swimmers in distress and have been employed in coastal storm response exercises.
According to Iscol, the technology’s potential for public safety operations continues to expand.
He said its versatility allows it to be applied across diverse scenarios, from firefighting to environmental hazard monitoring.
Testing and evaluation process
FDNY Robotics Programme Administrator Mike Leo said the DHS-hosted assessment involved operational testing of multiple drone models to establish performance benchmarks and inform future procurement decisions.
Leo explained that the process focused on evaluating existing technology for suitability in urban emergency environments rather than immediate modifications.
He noted that the metrics gathered will be applicable to public safety agencies nationwide.
Leo added that the department monitors emerging drone technology to ensure it is reliable for public safety use before deployment.
Security standards and equipment replacement
FDNY confirmed that the evaluation also addressed cyber security concerns raised in DHS guidance regarding certain foreign-manufactured drones.
The department said it is phasing out such models in favour of alternatives meeting its security criteria.
Officials explained that testing in New York City’s dense urban environment serves as proof of concept, ensuring technology functions in areas with complex radio and cellular signal conditions.
Daughtry stated that if a system performs effectively in New York, it is expected to work reliably in other US cities.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The FDNY’s drone technology programme provides a model for integrating unmanned aerial systems into urban fire and rescue operations.
It demonstrates how early scene intelligence can be gathered before first responders arrive, enhancing tactical decision-making.
The approach also shows the importance of cyber-secure equipment procurement and operational testing in challenging environments before large-scale deployment.
Fire and safety professionals can assess how autonomous drone deployment could be applied to their jurisdictions, considering local geography, infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.
FDNY expands autonomous drone technology for emergency response in New York City: Summary
The New York Fire Department has conducted a weeklong drone technology assessment in partnership with the NYPD and DHS NUSTL.
The evaluation tested Department of Defense-approved drones from the Blue UAS Cleared List for cyber security and operational suitability.
FDNY said the project aims to identify replacements for restricted drones and inform manufacturers on operational needs.
Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry outlined plans to place autonomous drones on firehouse rooftops for pre-arrival scene assessment.
Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said drones are deployed across all five boroughs for firefighting and rescue operations.
FDNY uses drones for thermal imaging, hotspot detection and structural stability assessment.
Zach Iscol from NYC Emergency Management said drones are also used for storm damage mapping, building collapse surveys and beach safety monitoring.
FDNY Robotics Administrator Mike Leo said the testing provided performance benchmarks and informed procurement planning.
The department is replacing certain foreign-made drones with models that meet its security standards.
Testing in New York City ensures drones can operate reliably in dense urban environments with complex signal conditions.
Correction: An earlier version of this report misattributed remarks to Cass Dorie. The correct name is Kaz Daughtry, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety.
Tokyo Fire Department confirms new Airbus H225 purchase
The Tokyo Fire Department has selected Airbus to supply a new H225 helicopter following a competitive tender.
The French manufacturer stated the aircraft will replace an older model as part of a broader upgrade programme.
According to Airbus, the new helicopter will be used for emergency medical response, aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and disaster recovery operations.
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan, said the selection built on a longstanding relationship: “For nearly six decades, Airbus has stood alongside the Tokyo Fire Department in their unwavering commitment to public safety and disaster response.”
Alfonsi added: “The Tokyo Fire Department’s continued trust in the H225 reflects the reliability and adaptability that our helicopters bring to every mission.
“With its proven versatility and endurance across all conditions, the H225 is well equipped to support their lifesaving work for years to come.”
Helicopter capabilities for emergency deployment
Airbus explained that the Tokyo Fire Department’s new H225 is configured to support a range of lifesaving missions.
The helicopter includes search and rescue technology with rapid detection capability, and has built-in systems to support onboard medical intervention.
A belly-mounted tank system allows for aerial firefighting deployments.
The company said the helicopter is equipped for both speed and precision, with operational flexibility across different emergency conditions.
History of Tokyo Fire Department aviation operations
The Tokyo Fire Department began its helicopter operations in 1967 using an Allouette III.
According to Airbus, the department currently operates three H225 helicopters and three AS365 aircraft.
The agency has worked with Airbus since its aviation unit was established.
The existing fleet supports emergency missions across the Tokyo metropolitan area, including natural disaster response and rescue.
H225 design features and technical systems
Airbus stated that the H225 is designed to offer extended range and heavy-lift capacity.
The company said the aircraft is part of the Super Puma family and is equipped with advanced avionics and autopilot systems.
These systems are designed to reduce pilot workload and increase operational safety, particularly in high-risk deployments.
According to Airbus, the helicopter’s design has been refined through its use in military and parapublic service operations.
Broader use of H225 helicopters in Japan
Airbus reported that 24 H225 helicopters are currently in use across Japan.
These aircraft are operated by the Ministry of Defence and several government agencies.
Uses include VIP travel, logistics, and emergency response across the country.
Airbus said the aircraft’s range of capabilities makes it suitable for operations in both civilian and defence contexts.
Airbus H225 helicopter to support Tokyo Fire Department emergency response: Summary
The Tokyo Fire Department has selected Airbus to supply an H225 helicopter.
Airbus announced the contract on 29 July 2025.
The helicopter will replace an older model as part of a fleet renewal programme.
It will support missions including firefighting, search and rescue, and emergency medical response.
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan, said the department had a long-standing relationship with Airbus.
The H225 includes a belly tank for firefighting and onboard medical stretchers.
The department’s helicopter operations began in 1967.
Its current fleet includes three H225s and three AS365s.
Airbus said the H225 includes autopilot systems and long-range capability.
Across Japan, 24 H225 helicopters are operated by government agencies and the Ministry of Defence.
Vallfirest has announced the acquisition of Aerial Fire Control PTY LTD, an Australian company known for its aerial firefighting systems.
According to Vallfirest, the acquisition will support the development of new helicopter-based wildfire suppression tools and extend the company’s manufacturing capacity.
The Spanish company, which focuses on wildland firefighting technology, said the deal would help accelerate innovation in response to rising fire risks linked to climate conditions.
The company said Aerial Fire Control’s products are used in Oceania and more than 12 other countries.
The announcement was published by Vallfirest on 24 July 2025.
Helicopter buckets and mission systems to support growth
Aerial Fire Control specialises in helicopter firefighting buckets and equipment for aerial missions.
According to Vallfirest, the company has operated for over 25 years and developed systems designed for reliability and operational efficiency.
Vallfirest said the integration of these systems into its existing product development would support the rollout of new-generation solutions.
The company said these solutions are aimed at meeting the demands of more extreme fire behaviour and climate pressures.
Vallfirest described Aerial Fire Control’s Water Hog bucket as a product with global relevance for critical fire response.
Company leaders emphasise continuity and future development
Vallfirest CEO Javier Baena said the deal reflected the company’s broader strategy for innovation and partnership in wildland firefighting.
Baena said: “At Vallfirest, we believe the future of wildland firefighting is built on innovation, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the challenges on the ground—and in the air.
“Aerial Fire Control has built an extraordinary legacy.
“Together, we will take it to new heights by developing the next generation of aerial solutions that can make the difference between disaster and resilience.”
Aerial Fire Control Managing Director Chris Black said the move would continue the company’s operational focus and allow further product development.
Black said: “After 25 years of innovating reliable, affordable helicopter buckets, we are excited to continue forward with the shared vision of Vallfirest and continue to create new aerial products that support critical, emergency response missions.
“Given their global wildfire presence, it is a perfect fit to continue the legacy of Water Hog products under the vft Vallfirest brand.”
Investment backing and international product reach
Vallfirest has been supported by Suma Capital since November 2024.
The investment firm said its SC Expansion strategy backs sustainable growth and environmental innovation.
Pau Bermúdez-Cañete, partner at Suma Capital, said: “Vallfirest is a prime example of how technology can become a powerful driver of decarbonization and growth.
“The acquisition of Aerial Fire Control strengthens this trajectory and expands Vallfirest’s product range and capabilities on an international scale.”
The firm added that this acquisition aligns with its focus on supporting resilient environmental technologies.
Suma Capital said it views Vallfirest’s expansion as part of a broader shift toward sustainable fire protection.
Aerial Fire Control background and market presence
Aerial Fire Control PTY LTD is headquartered in Adelaide, South Australia.
The company develops aerial firefighting buckets and modular tank systems for helicopters.
Its equipment is used in external load operations and has been deployed across multiple continents.
Vallfirest stated that these systems have a track record in critical wildfire response.
The acquisition gives Vallfirest direct access to Aerial Fire Control’s manufacturing capabilities.
Vallfirest acquires Aerial Fire Control to expand aerial wildfire tools: Summary
Vallfirest has acquired Australian firm Aerial Fire Control PTY LTD.
The deal was announced by Vallfirest on 24 July 2025.
Aerial Fire Control develops helicopter buckets and aerial firefighting systems.
Vallfirest said the acquisition will enhance its ability to develop new wildfire suppression tools.
The Spanish company said the move is part of a broader innovation strategy.
Aerial Fire Control equipment is used in Oceania and over 12 other countries.
Chris Black is the founder and Managing Director of Aerial Fire Control.
Black will continue working with Vallfirest to develop new aerial products.
Vallfirest is supported by investment firm Suma Capital.
Suma Capital has backed Vallfirest since November 2024.
The acquisition includes access to manufacturing and product development infrastructure.