The European Union (EU) has finalized its order for 22 new-generation amphibious firefighting aircraft, with the manufacturer renaming the aircraft Canadair 515. This decision signifies a return to the strong European recognition of the Canadair brand, which has been synonymous with aerial firefighting aircraft for decades.

The rescEU programme and De Havilland’s role in civil protection

The agreement with De Havilland Canada includes the purchase of two additional aircraft beyond the original plan for 20, a decision facilitated by the EU’s rescEU programme. This programme is part of the European Civil Protection Mechanism, designed to bolster member states’ ability to respond to natural and man-made disasters, including increasingly frequent forest fires across Europe. rescEU aims to ensure that Europe has the capacity and resources to respond rapidly to such emergencies, and the addition of advanced firefighting aircraft is a critical step in this direction.

With the Canadair 515, the EU’s firefighting fleet will be equipped with the latest in firefighting technology. The aircraft will be deployed across key regions such as France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece, countries that have experienced devastating wildfires in recent years. These regions rely heavily on amphibious aircraft to access remote areas and rapidly control forest fires before they spread.

A broader adoption of the Canadair 515

In addition to the EU-wide procurement, other governments are also independently investing in the Canadair 515 to modernize their fleets. The Spanish government has confirmed the purchase of five more of these aircraft, which will replace its ageing CL-215 and CL-415 fleets. Similarly, Greece and Croatia have made significant orders of seven and two units, respectively. This shows that the demand for reliable and advanced firefighting aircraft is growing globally, not just within the EU.

Technological advances: DHC-515 vs CL-series

De Havilland Canada first launched its DHC-515 programme in 2022, aiming to build on the legacy of the CL-215 and CL-415 series while introducing significant technological improvements. One of the most notable upgrades is the aircraft’s increased water capacity. The DHC-515 can hold 7,000 litres of water—1,000 litres more than its predecessor—enabling it to fight fires more efficiently. Additionally, the aircraft has been designed to have an increased maximum landing weight, enhancing its operational flexibility and allowing it to carry heavier loads for firefighting missions.

The DHC-515 also incorporates a Pro Line Fusion digital flight control system from Collins Aerospace, which enhances situational awareness for pilots and allows for greater automation during flight. Meanwhile, the aircraft is powered by the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW123AF turboprop engines, providing increased power and reliability. These advancements make the Canadair 515 one of the most technically advanced firefighting aircraft available today.

Amphibious capabilities: critical for firefighting

One of the defining features of the Canadair 515 is its amphibious capabilities, inherited from its predecessors. Amphibious aircraft, like the CL-215 and CL-415, are able to land on both land and water, making them uniquely suited for aerial firefighting. The aircraft can scoop water from lakes, rivers, or seas in just a few minutes, all while in motion. This rapid water retrieval is a key advantage in battling large and fast-spreading wildfires, particularly in remote areas where ground-based firefighting resources are limited.

Multi-purpose capabilities beyond firefighting

In addition to firefighting, the DHC-515 is designed for multi-role capabilities, which makes it an invaluable asset for civil protection agencies. For example, it can be used for insect control, where the aircraft is able to spray insecticides over large areas to mitigate the spread of harmful pests. It can also play a role in oil spill response missions, where it can be equipped to spray dispersing agents over affected waters.

Moreover, the DHC-515 is configured with a larger cargo door, allowing it to carry essential supplies and equipment during disaster relief missions. It can also be outfitted with medical evacuation and patient transport equipment, making it a critical tool during natural disasters or large-scale emergencies that require quick and efficient humanitarian assistance.

Historical development: from Bombardier to De Havilland

The story of the Canadair brand dates back to its origins with the CL-series, which was originally developed by Canadair and later taken over by Bombardier Aerospace. The CL-215 and CL-415 models became iconic firefighting aircraft used around the world. In 2016, the Viking Air company, which is part of the Longview Aviation Capital group, acquired the CL-series from Bombardier, marking a new chapter for the aircraft line. However, attempts to revitalize production were halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite these setbacks, the rising demand for more efficient firefighting solutions spurred the eventual development of the DHC-515. In 2022, De Havilland Canada took over the programme, positioning the aircraft as the future of aerial firefighting. The decision to rename the aircraft Canadair 515 is a nod to the brand’s rich legacy and the trust it has earned over decades of reliable service.

The future of firefighting with Canadair 515

The demand for advanced firefighting aircraft is only expected to grow as climate change leads to more frequent and intense wildfires. With its enhanced capabilities, the Canadair 515 is poised to become a key asset in firefighting operations not just in Europe but across the globe. Its multi-role capabilities, technological advancements, and increased capacity make it a versatile solution for a wide range of missions.

The adoption of the Canadair 515 by multiple nations, as well as the EU’s investment in these aircraft, is a testament to the critical role they play in modern civil protection strategies. Looking ahead, the Canadair 515 will likely set new standards in aerial firefighting and disaster response for years to come.

Source: aerotime.aero