Lockheed Martin’s Polish subsidiary PZL Mielec has kicked off the production of two of Czechia’s Sikorsky S-70 Firehawk helicopters in Poland.
The Firehawk — based on the Black Hawk — is designed for aerial firefighting and emergency response, featuring a 1,000‑gallon (3,785-liter) water tank, retractable snorkel, twin engines, and night‑vision capability.
It will also become a permanent asset of the RescEU pool for cross‑border deployment to assist during wildfire, flood, or earthquake emergencies.
First in Europe
The helicopter is being manufactured for Czechia through a partnership with the Helicopter Alliance company Česká letecká servisní (CLS) and US-based United Rotorcraft.
“The Czech Republic is not merely buying helicopters; it is pioneering Europe’s first operational Firehawk capability,” said CLS CEO Monika Kowalczykova.
PZL Mielec is responsible for assembling the Black Hawk airframe, while United Rotorcraft will install the firefighting kit, water tanks, and additional search‑and‑rescue equipment, as well as conduct crew training and provide long‑term sustainment.
According to Lockheed Martin, the solution is intended to provide Czech operators with the same operational maturity relied upon by US agencies such as CAL FIRE and the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Dr. Dennis Goege, VP and Chief Executive for Europe at Lockheed Martin, described the move as “more than a manufacturing milestone; it is the first concrete step toward a continent‑wide, modern aerial firefighting network.”
“By delivering proven technology from a European supply chain, we are giving European communities a decisive tool to protect lives, property and ecosystems,” he added.
