The helicopters will be based in the Czech Republic under the European Commission’s RescEU programme. The Ministry of Interior also holds an option for a third aircraft as part of the wider effort to bolster continental emergency response.
“As wildfires increasingly threaten communities across Europe, we are proud that PZL Mielec can provide such advanced helicopters to keep residents, resources, and infrastructure safe for decades to come,” said Janusz Zakręcki, president and general director of PZL Mielec. “This helicopter, produced in Poland, is a clear example of how our technology supports critical wildfire and emergency response efforts, and we look forward to continuously expanding the fleet’s reach into new countries around the globe.”
Firehawk helicopters, which begin as Black Hawk helicopters built in Poland, are relied on across the United States for wildfire and disaster missions. PZL Mielec’s facility employs 1,700 staff and supports about 5,000 further jobs across the European Union through its network of suppliers.
“Welcoming the Firehawk to Europe represents a major leap forward in the continent’s wildfire and emergency response,” said Dr. Dennis Goege, Lockheed Martin vice president and chief executive for Europe. “By combining the Firehawk’s proven capabilities with the expertise of European emergency responders, we can more efficiently and effectively manage the growing threat of wildfires.”
CLS said the project introduces a new level of capability for European operators as fire seasons intensify. “We are proud to partner with PZL Mielec and United Rotorcraft to bring this revolutionary aerial firefighting capability to Europe for the first time,” said Monika Kowalczykova, chief executive officer of Česká Letecká Servisní. “The Firehawk’s unparalleled capabilities and abilities to operate in challenging conditions will provide European communities with a vital tool in the fight against devastating wildfires.”
United Rotorcraft remains responsible for converting Black Hawk helicopters into Firehawk configurations. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to see the Firehawk make its debut in Europe. We look forward to working with CLS on this first build outside of Colorado,” said Larry Alexandre, president of United Rotorcraft.
The aircraft’s 1,000 gallon tank, retractable snorkel and night vision capability allow crews to fight fires in harsh conditions. U.S. public safety agencies continue to depend on the type, and Sikorsky and CAL FIRE recently announced work on an autonomous version to widen future firefighting options.
