Cal Fire has completed the first phase of a $12 million renovation at the Ramona Air Attack Base, replacing an aging tarmac with upgraded infrastructure built for newer firefighting aircraft, according to ABC 10News.

The upgraded base now supports aircraft including the C-130 Hercules air tanker and the Cal Fire Hawk helicopter. ABC 10News reported the C-130 can carry up to 4,000 gallons of fire retardant, giving crews more capacity to slow fast-moving wildfires before they spread.

Cal Fire Capt. Michael Cornette told ABC 10News the expanded aircraft capacity and speed have helped crews suppress fires more quickly in recent weeks. The base also has increased daily staffing from about 10 personnel to roughly 40, adding pilots, firefighters, mechanics and support workers.

For Santee residents, the Ramona base is one of the region's key wildfire response assets. Faster air attack can matter when fires break out in the inland backcountry, along freeway corridors or near communities where dry brush and wind can push flames quickly.

Cal Fire described the project as a long-term investment in protecting San Diego County as wildfire seasons become hotter and more destructive. The first phase is now complete, with the base positioned to support broader Southern California fire response.