MAFFS brief

Aircrews of the 302nd Airlift Wing gather for a morning briefing during Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System training April 22. The Air Force Reserve Command’s 302nd AW held its annual MAFFS certification and re-certification for C-130 aircrews April 19-23. When it is determined MAFFS is needed, the National Interagency Fire Center through U.S. Northern Command requests the DOD's U.S. Air Force resources. These trained military personnel along with the MAFFS equipment are activated to supplement the civilian air tanker program during periods of high wildfire activity throughout the nation. In 2012 the 302nd AW MAFFS-equipped C-130s, aircrew and personnel supported fire suppression operations in 10 states, including drops on the Waldo Canyon fire near Colorado Springs. 2013 marks the 20th year the MAFFS mission has been flown by the Airmen and C-130s of the 302nd AW. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Nathan Federico)