Concept Study of an Innovative Aerial Component for The Italian Firefighting System

This project originates from the assessment of the current Italian aerial firefighting scenario. The identification of several weak points, both at the operational level and at the strategic/tactical command chain levels, inspired the proposal of an integrated solution. This relies on the introduction of two novel elements: a new commanding role, in an intermediate layer between the director of extinguishing operations and the cooperating air crews, and a new aerial platform, which combines and enhances the functions of a patrol aircraft and a ‘spotter’ aircraft with those of an integrated airborne command and control post. Through these additions, which require minor modifications to the current firefighting system organization, the system effectiveness can be substantially improved, both in terms of ability in rapid fire suppression and of reduction of operational costs related to water bomber flight missions. The “Firefly” multirole aircraft can be easily obtained through refurbishing of existing models with specific remote sensors and a modular control station. Through this equipment, multirole applications are made available in other civil protection and environmental monitoring activities that do not suffer seasonal utilization, further justifying the “Firefly” development costs.