At a Glance
- QRF contract expires 2025, not renewed for 2026
- SCE keeps program for 2026 but pilots limited to LA & Ventura
- OCFA adds new 1,000-gallon FIREHAWKS in 2024 to strengthen fleet
- Why it matters: It shapes wildfire response across 15 Southern California counties
The Quick Reaction Force (QRF), a joint effort between county fire agencies and SoCal Edison (SCE), is set to end its 2025 contract after the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) board failed to approve renewal. While SCE will maintain the program into 2026, the partnership will shift to pilots from Los Angeles and Ventura counties, and OCFA has bolstered its own fleet with new FIREHAWKS.
QRF Program Expiration and SCE’s Response
The four-aircraft QRF, which has dropped millions of gallons of water in hundreds of fires since 2021, was established by former OCFA Chief Brian Fennessy. The program’s annual net-cost for 2026 was set at $17.14 million, but the board’s vote never occurred, causing the contract to expire last Wednesday.
SCE stated:
> “The QRF has proven to be a game-changing resource in reducing wildfire risk in Southern California,” said the utility.
- Chinook CH-47 helicopters: 3,000 gallons each
- Sikorsky S-76 command and control aircraft
- FIREHAWK (1,000-gallon) water drop
OCFA’s New Aircraft and Mission Continuity
Acting Fire Chief TJ McGovern announced that OCFA added two 1,000-gallon-dropping FIREHAWKS in 2024, creating a four-aircraft fleet that can be bolstered by additional aircraft when requested.
TJ McGovern said:
> “We are fortunate that the OCFA added two new 1,000-gallon-dropping FIREHAWKS in 2024, giving us a four-aircraft fleet that can be bolstered by additional aircraft when requested… these assets, combined with the operational excellence of our Air Operations section, firefighters, and hand crews, provide a high-quality response that keeps our communities well protected during wildfires.”
The next OCFA Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Jan. 22, 2026, but the agenda is not posted, leaving the QRF contract’s future uncertain.
Future Outlook
SCE spokesperson Scott Johnson said the QRF will still respond to Orange County fires when requested, and that the utility remains committed to wildfire mitigation through grid hardening, operational practices, and situational awareness.
Scott Johnson stated:
> “SCE remains committed to wildfire mitigation through grid hardening, enhanced operational practices and situational awareness. Working with local fire agencies, including support of programs such as the Quick Reaction Force, is part of that commitment.”
Key Takeaways
- QRF contract expires 2025; SCE maintains program for 2026 with LA & Ventura pilots
- OCFA strengthens fleet with new FIREHAWKS, ensuring continued local response
- SCE pledges to support QRF operations and broader wildfire mitigation efforts
With the QRF contract ending for 2025, the future of rapid aerial firefighting in Southern California hinges on SCE’s continued support and OCFA’s expanded fleet, underscoring the region’s ongoing battle against wildfire.
