Texas A&M Forest Service buys 2 helicopters to launch wildfire aircraft fleet

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. [KLTV Channel 7 News]

AUSTIN — Texas A&M Forest Service has procured two helicopters as it launches what state lawmakers envisioned as a comprehensive aerial firefighting operation to combat the state's recurring wildfire crisis.

The agency announced the acquisition of two Subaru Bell 412EPX rotorcraft this week, marking the opening move in implementing a legislative mandate for dedicated wildfire suppression equipment. The first aircraft is slated to arrive in December 2027, with delivery of the second unit expected between three and six months afterward. Officials framed the initiative around a straightforward mission: positioning firefighting resources on active fires with minimal delay.

The 89th Texas Legislature committed $257 million to support the establishment, operation and upkeep of the aerial fleet during the 2025 fiscal year. This initial phase represents only the beginning of a two-year buildout plan that will eventually incorporate additional assets, including fixed-wing aircraft capable of multiple missions and heavy-duty water-dropping tankers.

The investment comes as Texas continues grappling with significant wildfire activity. Last year alone, the Forest Service and partnering local agencies tackled more than 6,300 individual fire incidents, with burned acreage surpassing 132,000 across the state.

"This investment in a dedicated fleet of firefighting aircraft gives our responders faster response times and greater strength to contain fires," Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement about the purchase.

Robert L. Albritton, chairman of the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents, emphasized the importance of advance preparation. "Preparing for the next wildfire season begins long before the first fire starts. This investment gives Texas A&M Forest Service dedicated resources that will improve readiness, strengthen response capabilities and better protect Texans and their communities," he said.