New Zealand-based P-750 manufacturer Pacific Aerospace is part of a new initiative to further develop the P-750 aircraft into a world class firefighting asset.

Arcus Fire, a UK company specialising in fixed wing and rotary aerial firefighting solutions, has partnered Pacific Aerospace and another Hamilton airport based company, Flight Structures, which offers aeronautical design, certification and manufacturing services, to collaborate on the development of the F-25 and F-45 Fire Catcher aircraft.

Based on the proven P-750 agricultural aircraft, the F-25 will be equipped with the new PT6-140A engine and a 3,000 litre hopper in order to provide 2,500 litres of water-based fire retardant. It is currently available for the 2021 fire season.

The F-45 is a new clean sheet design, that will be the largest single engine air tanker in the world. It will carry 4,500 litres of water or retardant for the lowest operating cost of its class. Equipped with a new lightweight firegate, a PT6A-67F engine and Garmin G600 flight deck, the F-45 is expected to be available for delivery in 2024. Both aircraft will be available under Arcus Fire's exclusive use/pay-as-you-go programme for government agencies.