Watch: CAL FIRE’s new C-130 tanker responds to first fire

By David Caraccio
Merced Sun-Star

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. — A new video shows the first fully operational C-130H delivering 8,000 gallons of retardant on the Record Fire in Riverside County, marking its inaugural firefighting mission over the weekend.

Tanker 122 has joined the fleet of the state’s firefighting agency, CAL FIRE.

“This marks an historic milestone in the agency’s ongoing commitment to CA!” Cal Fire chief Joe Tylor said on X.

California officials waited more than five years to get the first of several military aircraft they were promised by the federal government to help fight fires across the state.

(c)2024 the Merced Sun-Star (Merced, Calif.)
Visit the Merced Sun-Star (Merced, Calif.) at www.mercedsunstar.com
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Trending

Terrorism Response

Suspect dead following vehicle-borne attack on Mich. synagogue

Authorities say an armed man rammed a vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township before being fatally shot by security

March 12, 2026 02:39 PM

Mayday

Watch: Bailout during Houston apartment fire

Video posted to social media showed three firefighters bailing out from the second floor at the Falls of Point West Apartments

March 13, 2026 01:27 PM

 · 

Bill Carey

Apparatus

Inside the Hosebed: Upper Chichester, Pa. Engine 10

Engine 10 carries 950’ of 2-1/2” reduced down to a 100’ 1-3/4” bundle load, with a breakaway nozzle

March 13, 2026 09:57 AM

 · 

Bill Carey

Off Duty

First responder fitness on a budget: Free tools to keep you in shape

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to enhance your existing routine, these free tools can help you stay fit and ready for the demands of your job

March 13, 2026 05:42 PM

 · 

Sarah Calams