Recoil Aerospace achieves certification for carbon fiber wildfire suppression system

Recoil Aerospace (Bowling Green, Ky., U.S.), a company that designs and manufactures a range of lightweight fire suppression systems, carbon fiber aerostructures and ballistically tolerant auxiliary fuel tanks, announces the successful certification of its T1000-E aerial fire suppression system (AFSS) by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for installation on Airbus (Toulouse, France) Super Puma series helicopters. 

“The T1000-E provides firefighters with a powerful tool to combat wildfires and protect communities,” Joseph Rice, president of Recoil Aerospace, says. The technology, a 3,785-liter (1,000-gallon) carbon fiber retractable externally mounted wildfire suppression tank, offers rapid filling (35-40 seconds) and fast drops (5 seconds). An integrated 132-liter (35-gallon) foam tank enhances firefighting capabilities, while pneumatic drop valves and computer-controlled operation ensure precision. LED pulse lights, flood lights and IR lights guarantee optimal visibility during day and night operations, including NVG use. For ground crew safety, a hailing siren is included. Powered by the aircraft’s AC/DC system, the T1000-E boasts an optional heads-up display (HUD) for pilots, promoting situational awareness and increasing safety.

The SR02584AK FAA Approved Manufacturer Listing Supplemental Type Certificate (AML STC) paves the way for broader adoption. The UH-60 Blackhawk is currently undergoing the certification process, with completion slated for early Q4 2024. Recoil has set its sights on adding certifications for the S-92, S-76, BH-205 Series and AW189 helicopter models in 2025. Additionally, bilateral STC recognition with Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is underway.

Recoil Aerospace is now accepting deposits to secure a limited number of T1000-E systems for 2024 delivery, starting in May. For inquiries and to learn more, contact sales@recoil-usa.com.