Nova Scotia is purchasing new helicopter water bombers, after the worse wildfire season on record, to replace the current fleet over the next four years.

The province and Ottawa are each paying $12.8 million on wildfire equipment and training until 2027.

“Being prepared for emergencies such as wildfires is critical to protecting communities and Nova Scotians. That’s why we’re considering all options and are upgrading our fleet of helicopters to ensure we can manage wildfires in the future,” said Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables. “Helicopters are very effective in fighting wildfires and they also serve us well for other uses. We’re grateful for our partnership with the federal government to support this major equipment purchase.”

Helicopters can scoop and dump water quicker than fixed-wing aircraft, they are also able to draw water from lakes and ponds. Nova Scotia’s fleet of helicopters is also versatile, supporting search and rescue efforts, transporting people and equipment during emergencies and conducting aerial surveillance to support the work of several departments.

This spring the province had out-of-control wildfires HRM and Shelburne County.