AUSTIN, Texas (KLTV) - The Texas A&M Forest Service purchased two helicopters in its first steps to build a state-mandated fleet of wildland firefighting aircraft.

The state agency announced Thursday, calling the fleet's objective simple: get aircraft on a fire as quickly as possible.

The first Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopter is expected to be delivered in December 2027, with the second aircraft to follow three to six months later."Texas families and communities depend on strong protection from wildfires," Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement.