A new CAL FIRE Firehawk helicopter is now permanently stationed at Ramona Air Base, giving San Diego County a stronger wildfire response tool heading into peak fire season, according to East County Magazine.

The Sikorsky S-70 Firehawk went into service Monday. County and CAL FIRE officials said the aircraft can carry a 1,000-gallon water tank, support hoist rescues and transport crews into remote areas.

For Santee and East County residents, the placement is significant because Ramona Air Base is a key launch point for wildfire response across the inland region. Faster aerial response can matter when brush fires move through canyons, open space and backcountry communities.

East County Magazine reported that county crews have trained for months on wildfire suppression, search and rescue, and emergency missions, with additional night-operation training still underway.