Israel Aerospace, Fire Free Forests to Launch New Boeing 767-Based Aerial Firefighting Aircraft

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Fire Free Forests (3F) to jointly develop a next-generation airborne firefighting platform based on the Boeing 767BDSF.

The initiative is intended to address the growing global threat of wildfires, which have intensified in recent years due to climate change.

The project will see the development of a specially adapted aircraft named the 767FF Fire-Fighter, designed to carry and disperse approximately 40 tons of fire retardant in a single operation. The platform combines IAI’s experience in aircraft engineering and conversion with 3F’s commercial planning and operational strategy.

The aircraft will feature real-time sensor systems capable of detecting fire locations, monitoring wind patterns, and assessing ground conditions. These technologies will be integrated into a centralized command and control system that coordinates both aerial and ground-based firefighting units.

IAI will lead the technical development, drawing from its Boeing 767-200/300BDSF passenger-to-freighter conversion program. This program supports structural and avionics upgrades, including ADS-B and SATCOM.

3F will focus on building a commercial strategy that includes a subscription-based service aimed at government agencies, reinsurers, and climate resilience programs. The company will manage business development, public-sector engagement, and financing to enable broad international access to the service.