The U.S. Forest Service says it plans to replace its wildfire-fighting fleet of aging air tankers with newer, faster, more cost-effective large air tankers.

The Forest Service today recommended that the next generation of large air tankers be powered by turbine engines, have a minimum cruise speed of 345 mph, and be able to carry at least 1,800 gallons of mixed retardant without having to return to a base.


It's unclear how quickly new planes will come on line.


The agency uses a mix of aircraft to support firefighters on the ground. But its fleet of 11 large air tankers, owned and operated by private contractors, is at least 50 years old. More than half face mandatory retirement in the next decade.