Two Air National Guard C-130J aircraft equipped with specialized firefighting systems have been activated to combat wildfires raging in and around Los Angeles, California, according to the Pentagon.
These aircraft, from the 146th Airlift Wing of the California Air National Guard, are the first to be deployed, with two additional C-130Js from the Nevada Air National Guard’s 152nd Airlift Wing preparing to join the operations.
The fires, fueled by dangerous winds and dry conditions, have scorched over 23,000 acres as of January 8, with containment at 0%, according to CalFire. The ongoing crisis has prompted significant state and federal emergency responses, including the deployment of over 7,500 firefighters and emergency personnel to protect communities across Southern California.
🚨 Horrifying videos of Malibu, California, reveal the intensity of the Palisades Fire 🔥
It’s out of control ‼️ No containment.
Streets are filled with firefighters battling a 3,000-acre wildfire that is ravaging expensive homes costing $4.5m on average #PasadenaFire… pic.twitter.com/poY2fAnBCV
— Lenka Houskova White (@white_lenka) January 8, 2025
The C-130Js have been equipped with the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS), a U.S. Forest Service-owned technology that allows these aircraft to drop up to 3,000 gallons of fire retardant in under 10 seconds. This system, designed as a roll-on/roll-off unit, enables rapid conversion of military transport planes into firefighting aircraft.
Four additional C-130s may be activated if conditions worsen, Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh stated.
In addition to the C-130s, 10 U.S. Navy helicopters equipped with water delivery buckets are on standby to assist. However, severe wind conditions and heavy smoke have limited aviation operations in affected areas, hindering a more extensive military response.
To address the crisis, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency and deployed resources, including 1,040 firefighters and 260 fire engines through the state’s Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has activated the State Operations Center to coordinate firefighting efforts and support impacted communities.
In addition to state efforts, President Joe Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to provide federal assistance to California. This declaration will support efforts to combat the Hurst, Eaton, and Palisades Fires, among others.
