Wildfires in Korea are no longer limited to specific seasons and have become more severe due to climate change and complex terrain. Recognizing the heightened risk during nighttime, especially when helicopters typically cannot operate, the Seoul Forest Aviation Office has developed a comprehensive aerial suppression system. This system centers on the domestically produced Surion (KUHC-1) helicopter and is supported by rigorous maintenance of bambi buckets. The policy aims to fill the critical gap in nighttime wildfire response and set a new national standard for safety and effectiveness.
The main stakeholders impacted by this policy include forest aviation pilots, emergency responders, and communities near forested areas. The Surion helicopter, equipped with night vision and automatic flight controls, enables safer operations in low-visibility conditions. The recent addition of the TK-8 infrared camera has significantly improved real-time fire line detection and strategic planning. The Forest Aviation Office also maintains 182 bambi buckets, distributing them to military and firefighting agencies to ensure a coordinated national response.
The need for nighttime wildfire suppression was identified after major fires in 2005, with systematic preparation accelerating following the Pohang fire in 2013 and the Goseong-Sokcho fire in 2019. Implementation includes expanding pilot night-flight qualifications and deploying advanced equipment such as the TK-8 camera. Strict criteria are applied before launching nighttime missions, focusing on life-saving, protection of critical infrastructure, and high-value forests. The policy is currently active, with ongoing efforts to enhance readiness and maintain equipment across the country.
Frequently asked questions include: What makes nighttime wildfire suppression high-risk? It involves visual limitations, challenging terrain, and unpredictable weather, making safety protocols essential. How does the Forest Aviation Office decide when to deploy at night? Missions are only approved when there is a clear objective, necessity, and manageable risk, prioritizing safety and asset protection. What equipment is used? The Surion helicopter, night vision systems, TK-8 infrared cameras, and bambi buckets form the core of the response system.
Korea’s Forest Aviation Office has effectively responded to the growing threat of nighttime wildfires by integrating advanced technology and rigorous safety standards. The use of Surion helicopters and TK-8 infrared cameras, combined with strict mission approval criteria, ensures both operational effectiveness and crew safety. The policy’s emphasis on maintenance and inter-agency cooperation further enhances national resilience. This comprehensive approach sets a strong example for wildfire management in challenging environments.