By SDCN Staff
Ramona, CA–A Cal Fire C-130H Hercules airtanker is operating from the Ramona Air Attack Base, significantly enhancing the region’s aerial firefighting capabilities ahead of Southern California’s peak wildfire season.
The aircraft is part of Cal Fire’s expanding fleet of large airtankers and is designed to rapidly deliver substantial amounts of fire retardant during major wildfire incidents, helping crews slow the spread of fast-moving fires and protect communities at risk.
“Since its establishment in 1957, this base has played a vital role in aerial firefighting, and the arrival of the C-130 reflects decades of progress and dedication,” said San Diego County Fire and Cal Fire Unit Chief Tony Mecham. “This achievement strengthens our ability to protect lives, property, and the communities we serve.”
The Ramona-based aircraft is the fourth of seven planned C-130H airtankers that will eventually comprise Cal Fire’s fleet. California made history in 2024 as the first state in the nation to own, operate, and deploy a C-130H airtanker.
Fire officials said crews will continue mission-specific and operational training in the coming weeks as the aircraft is fully integrated into Cal Fire’s statewide aviation program.
Mecham credited the successful deployment to the efforts of Cal Fire personnel, aviation staff, partner agencies, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, and the Governor’s Office for their support throughout the project.
The addition of the C-130 comes as fire officials continue expanding the region’s aerial firefighting resources. Earlier this year, Cal Fire announced the arrival of a Sikorsky S-70i Firehawk helicopter and plans to reconstruct portions of the Ramona Air Attack Base to accommodate the agency’s growing fleet of next-generation firefighting aircraft.
Officials say the expanded aviation resources will improve response capabilities across San Diego County and throughout California as fire agencies prepare for another challenging wildfire season.
