Blog

When wildfires rage and ground firefighting forces struggle to reach affected areas quickly, aerial firefighting becomes a critical tool. The Tokyo Fire Department has equipped itself with advanced aerial firefighting systems to enhance efficiency in combating wildfires, minimizing damage and protecting urban safety. This article outlines the primary aerial firefighting apparatus employed by the department.

The Tokyo Fire Department utilizes two main types of aerial firefighting equipment. The first is the underslung firefighting system, known as the "Fire Attacker," which is mounted directly beneath the helicopter fuselage. The system comes in two variants: a large-capacity model holding 2,700 liters and a medium-capacity model with a 900-liter tank. Equipped with a self-priming pump, it enables rapid water refills and repeated firefighting operations, significantly improving response efficiency.

The second system consists of collapsible water buckets suspended by cables beneath helicopters. The large-capacity version holds 1,500 liters, while the medium version carries 500 liters. Firefighting helicopters can swiftly collect water from rivers, lakes, or other sources before deploying it over fire zones. In rugged or forested terrain, these buckets offer unmatched flexibility and mobility.

By combining these two systems, the Tokyo Fire Department has established a comprehensive three-dimensional firefighting framework. This approach allows for rapid and effective responses to wildfires and other emergencies, ensuring maximum protection for both urban and wildland areas.