China deploys AG600 aircraft in formation for wildfire response

China has deployed its domestically developed AG600 amphibious aircraft in a two-aircraft formation for forward wildfire response operations, as part of efforts to strengthen emergency rescue capabilities during the high-risk spring fire season.

According to Aviation Industry Corporation of China, two AG600 aircraft, numbered 1102 and 1103, were recently dispatched to Guangdong Province to carry out forward-positioned firefighting standby missions. The operation has successfully completed its initial phase, significantly enhancing the province's aerial emergency response capacity.

The missions began with a series of training activities after the first aircraft arrived, including rapid water refilling operations completed in as little as six minutes. The team also surveyed key water sources to ensure a reliable supply for firefighting.

The aircraft also carried out cross-regional deployments to Shaoguan and Zhanjiang, testing their adaptability in complex environments and their capability for coordinated, multi-domain support.

Dual-aircraft formation operations began on April 1. The two aircraft completed 34 sorties, logging a total of 76 hours and 46 minutes of flight time. They conducted 52 water-dropping operations, delivering a total of 624 tonnes of water.

Officials said the mission validated the AG600's capability to conduct coordinated firefighting operations in complex terrain, while demonstrating the reliability of its support systems. The deployment also helped develop a new operational model focused on precision water delivery and rapid response, providing strong support for wildfire prevention efforts during the peak spring season.