Official announcements from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) or U.S. Department of Defense

Biden Directs Military to Deploy 10 Navy Helicopters to Combat Los Angeles Wildfires

Jan 8, 2025, 11:58 PM

The U.S. Department of Defense is deploying resources to assist with the wildfires raging in California, particularly in the Los Angeles area. The California National Guard is deploying two Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFS) units, with two more units on standby, to combat the fires. Additionally, the Defense Department is sending 10 U.S. Navy helicopters equipped with aerial water buckets to help fight the blazes. These efforts are in response to the ongoing wildfires that have prompted President Biden to direct military assistance to the region.