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

Arson/Investigation

Arson suspect arrested as Wash. battles devastating wildfires

Authorities say a citizen tip led to the suspect’s arrest in connection with the Old Trails Fire, one of three uncontained wildfires that have destroyed at least 700 buildings

August 04, 2026 08:39 AM

Fireground Operations

Drone to map burned vacant Ore. warehouse as fire investigation continues

Crews used aerial apparatus to battle the seven-story Centennial Mills blaze as investigators prepare a drone survey

August 04, 2026 08:34 AM

Wildfire and Wildland-Urban Interface

FEMA approves firefighting funds for 3 Wash. wildfires

Three Fire Management Assistance Grants will reimburse up to 75% of eligible suppression expenses for the Sinlahekin, Fairview and Autumn Lane fires

August 03, 2026 09:47 AM

Wildfire and Wildland-Urban Interface

Wash. conflagrations burn 700 structures, force over 60K to evacuate

The Autumn Lane, Fairview and Old Trails fires burned approximately 8,000 acres on the northern edges of Spokane

August 03, 2026 01:34 AM