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Los Angeles,United States: In response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, US Northern Command (NORTHCOM) has activated eight C-130 aircraft equipped with Modular Aerial Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS). These aircraft, operated by Air National Guard (ANG) and Air Force Reserve (AFRes) units, are set to become operational over the fire zones by January 12, providing critical support in the battle against the escalating disaster.
Three MAFFS units have already relocated personnel and aircraft to Port Hueneme, home to the 146th Airlift Wing, which will serve as their operational base. Meanwhile, March Air Reserve Base in Riverside County has been designated as a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Incident Support Base for distributing emergency supplies and equipment.
The US Forest Service typically relies on contracted airtankers to combat wildfires. However, during periods of high demand, these resources may fall short. In such cases, the Department of Defense steps in with its fleet of C-130 aircraft equipped with MAFFS systems, which can discharge up to 3,000 gallons of fire retardant in under five seconds.
The MAFFS units are not Initial Attack (IA) certified and are used primarily for established fires under the guidance of Aerial Supervision Modules or Lead Planes. This coordination ensures the effective deployment of resources without overlapping with commercial airtanker operations.
MAFFS equipment, owned by the US Forest Service, is designed for roll-on, roll-off installation in military C-130 transport aircraft, requiring no structural modifications. The newer MAFFS II system features a single tank with a capacity of 3,000 gallons, which can cover a quarter-mile area in seconds. The system's red-colored retardant ensures precise drops while minimizing damage to structures.
The retardant, composed of 80-85% water mixed with ammonium sulfate and a gelling agent, disperses as a fine mist to combat wildfires effectively. The aircraft can be refueled and ready for deployment in less than 20 minutes, maintaining a rapid response capability.
The eight MAFFS systems are distributed across four Airlift Wings:
#153rd Airlift Wing, Wyoming ANG: MAFFS 1 and 3
#302nd Airlift Wing, Colorado AFRes: MAFFS 2 and 5
#146th Airlift Wing, California ANG: MAFFS 4 and 6
#152nd Airlift Wing, Nevada ANG: MAFFS 8 and 9
These units undergo annual training to ensure readiness, with each unit maintaining at least five certified MAFFS personnel.
Los Angeles wildfires have underscored the urgent need for coordinated firefighting efforts. NORTHCOM has expressed readiness to provide additional support, including search and rescue operations, emergency route clearance, and medical assistance.
As climate-related disasters grow more frequent, the deployment of MAFFS-equipped aircraft highlights the importance of adaptable and robust emergency response strategies. The US military and civilian agencies continue to collaborate to safeguard communities from the devastating impact of wildfires.
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