China's Ministry of Emergency Management has received the first batch of the domestically developed MA60 firefighting airplanes, marking a significant milestone in the nation's efforts to bolster its aerial emergency response capabilities. Delivered on Monday by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, the two MA60 aircraft are set to play a pivotal role in emergency air-rescue operations across the country.
The MA60 firefighting aircraft is a versatile fixed-wing plane designed specifically for aerial firefighting and a range of emergency rescue missions. Equipped with advanced features such as water-dropping operations, fire monitoring, and comprehensive communications and command systems, the MA60 also facilitates personnel and supply transport, making it a multifaceted asset for disaster response.
With a maximum water-carrying capacity of 6 tonnes and the ability to transport up to 3.7 tonnes of cargo, these aircraft can support up to 28 individuals onboard, enhancing both firefighting efforts and logistical support during emergencies. As part of the \"Modern Ark\" MA60 multipurpose aircraft family, the firefighting variant has successfully obtained the supplemental type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China.
The development of the MA60 firefighting airplanes commenced in 2021, with significant advancements achieved in core technologies, according to Miao Zhimin, the chief designer of the aircraft. \"Looking ahead, the MA60 firefighting aircraft will be a critical force in aerial emergency response and play an important role in forest and grassland fire prevention and fighting, as well as personnel and supply transportation,\" Miao stated.
This latest delivery underscores China's commitment to enhancing its emergency management infrastructure, leveraging homegrown technological innovations to address increasingly complex challenges in disaster response and public safety.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
