Originally Posted by
Marlowki
My apologies, it is not NVG but thermal cameras. I was talking with a pilot who show me some impressive thermal cam video. I have been impressed by its level of detail.
The thermal cameras are on the Bell 429's that are on contract with Cal-Fire as "Helco" platforms. Basically they fly above and direct the air assets. Coulson also has an S-76 that they use as a "lead Helicopter" to direct their Chinooks on drops. They also have thermal imaging cameras linked to mapping systems. Both these aircraft do the same as the old USFS Cobras that were retired a couple years back.