The US-2 Amphibian Aircraft - Operations in large-scale fire disasters

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The US-2 Amphibian Aircraft - A New Beginning Operations in large-scale fire disasters

In Europe and North America, amphibian aircraft are deployed for aerial firefighting to put out forest fires and urban fires that result from large-scale earthquakes.

Japan’ growing firefighting requirements for forest fire suppression and urban fire are supported by the US-2’ capabilities for operations as a Fire-fighting Amphibian Aircraft.

Fire-fighting Amphibian Aircraft (composite photo)

The large load capacity of the US-2 means that it can carry up to 15 tons of water or extinguishing agent. This is equal to 21 times the capacity of normal firefighting helicopters.

In addition, the STOL characteristics of the US-2 allow precise water drops on fire hot spots.

The large load capacity of the US-2 means that it can carry up to 15 tons of water or extinguishing agent.

With its superb amphibian capabilities, the US-2 needs a mere 20 seconds flying at water level on lakes and rivers to fully replenish its tanks with 15 tons of water. Therefore, the aircraft is continuously engaged when firefighting in large-scale fire disasters.

In 1976, ShinMaywa converted a PS-1 to carry out firefighting trials, and these trials confirmed the value of the aircraft in aerial firefighting.

*Movie shows Shinmaywa’ Fire-fighting Amphibian Aircraft firefighting trials.
Adjusting the drop door operation can regulate water quantities and pressure.

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