Production Begins in Poland for Europe's First Sikorsky FIREHAWK Helicopters
BY Composights
Published: 21 Jul 2026
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Lockheed Martin has announced the start of production of Europe's first Sikorsky FIREHAWK helicopters at PZL Mielec in Poland, marking a significant milestone in expanding advanced aerial firefighting capabilities across Europe. The helicopters are being manufactured for the Czech Republic and are based on the proven S-70 BLACK HAWK platform, combining multi-mission utility performance with specialized firefighting equipment.
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Each FIREHAWK helicopter will be equipped with a 1,000-gallon (3,785-liter) water tank, a retractable snorkel for rapid water refill operations, twin engines, and night-vision capability, enabling firefighting operations in demanding environments and low-visibility conditions. These capabilities have been extensively demonstrated during wildfire response missions across the United States.
The production program brings together PZL Mielec, LS, and United Rotorcraft, which will expand its European operations into the Czech Republic. While PZL Mielec manufactures the BLACK HAWK airframes, United Rotorcraft will install the firefighting mission systems, conduct pilot and crew training, and provide long-term maintenance support to deliver a fully integrated operational solution.
In addition to its advanced firefighting systems, the S-70 BLACK HAWK platform incorporates composite main and tail rotor blades, which provide higher fatigue resistance, improved durability, corrosion resistance, and reduced maintenance compared with conventional metallic rotor systems. The lightweight composite rotor technology also enhances lifting capability and overall aircraft performance during demanding firefighting missions.
PZL Mielec has a long history of delivering aircraft that serve both national security and public safety missions. The launch of production for the Czech Republic s FIREHAWK aircraft reinforces our role as a key European manufacturing center and highlights the growing importance of international cooperation in addressing natural disasters and emergency response challenges, said Janusz Zakr cki, President and General Director of PZL Mielec.
The launch of production reflects the growing adoption of specialized rotorcraft equipped with advanced composite structures and mission-specific technologies to strengthen wildfire response capabilities as climate-driven fire risks continue to increase across Europe.
Source: Lockheed Martin | News
