Agile Black Hawk helicopters will revolutionise bushfire fighting in South Australia this summer and significantly boost capability for the Country Fire Service’s aerial fleet in a move that also increases protection for the community and firefighters.

Two Sikorsky UH-60A Black Hawk helicopters – operated by South Australian company Aerotech – are now on standby for deployment across the state.

“These Black Hawks are revolutionary firefighting assets because of their quickfire capability,” Emergency Services Minister Vincent Tarzia said.

“There’s not a gun in sight but make no mistake, these Black Hawks are one of our strongest weapons in the fight against bushfires.

“Black Hawks can deploy in just five minutes, surpassing the ability of other Type 1 firefighting helicopters, meaning CFS volunteers on the ground have greater aerial support for longer periods.

“Each helicopter has a top speed of 360kph and can hold 4000 litres of water or retardant. They can refill from a tank or dam in just 35 seconds and the accuracy of water drops is pinpoint.”

CFS Chief Officer Mark Jones described the Black Hawks as the “next generation” of aerial firebombers.

“The CFS has utilised helicopter firebombing aircraft since 2006,” Mr Jones said.

“Our aircraft are key factors in helping to slow the speed of fires so our ground troops can safely get in and extinguish them.

“The speed of response and flexibility of the Black Hawks will provide greater capability for our other 25 aircraft across South Australia.”

The Black Hawks will be based in the Adelaide Hills and contracted to the CFS on a multi-year contract for an 84-day period.