CAL FIRE's S2
S-2T airtankers hit wildfires fast, reaching remote areas in about 20 minutes.
CAL FIRE's S2 Airtanker
CAL FIRE’s S-2T airtankers provide rapid initial attack on wildfires, delivering fire retardant to even the most remote areas of California in under 20 minutes.
Mission
The S-2T airtankers are used for rapid initial attack delivery of fire retardant on wildand fires. These airtankers are strategically located throughout California responding to the most remote State Responsibility Areas (SRA) within approximately 20 minutes.
Manufacturer
Grumman Aerospace, Bethpage, New York.
Original Owner
United States Navy, 1958-1975; The S-2E/G carrier-based anti-submarine warfare airplane.
Acquired by CAL FIRE
In 1996, CAL FIRE acquired 26 S-2E/G planes from the Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) program. Marsh Aviation converted the planes to a firefighting configuration and were retrofitted with modern, powerful turboprop engines. The completely reconditioned S-2Ts are faster, safer, more maneuverable, and carry a larger retardant payload than the original S-2A airtankers CAL FIRE had used since the 1970s. The final three S-2Ts were completed and delivered in 2005.