Montana launches state‑run aerial fire‑monitoring plane as US expands firefighting drone trials

Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation has begun operating a new single‑engine aircraft that can stay aloft for extended periods, enhancing coordination between air crews and ground firefighters. The program, managed by Aviation Program Manager Jay Lindgren, reduces reliance on federal support and was already used during a July 4 fire in the Bitterroot Valley. The state‑controlled platform can also be employed year‑round for emergencies such as floods or avalanches.

In California, the state fire agency CAL FIRE conducted a field test of autonomous firefighting drones developed by Seneca. Five Argo‑1 drones worked together to spray up to 1,000 gallons of foam, using GPS waypoints and heat‑signature sensors to locate fires. The drones, each carrying about 100 lb of water or retardant, are designed for rapid deployment in fire‑prone areas, with commercial availability slated for 2026. The efforts reflect a broader US push to incorporate aerial technology, including drones, into wildfire response strategies.