California's wildfire moonshot: How new technology will defeat advancing flames

The Los Angeles Times explores the future of firefighting technology through demonstrations of autonomous helicopters and AI-powered systems being developed to combat California's worsening wildfire crisis.

Southern California is pioneering revolutionary firefighting technology that could transform how the state battles increasingly destructive wildfires. As climate change drives more frequent and intense fires, experts are developing autonomous helicopters equipped with sensors and AI, satellite detection systems, smart sprinkler networks, and augmented reality tools for firefighters. The goal is ambitious: containing 95% of fires to just 10 square feet through rapid detection and immediate autonomous response.

• AI-powered camera networks already monitor California's landscape, while autonomous Black Hawk helicopters undergo testing for unmanned firefighting missions
• Companies are developing smart water delivery systems, home protection sprinklers, and firefighting robots to supplement traditional crews
• Federal and state legislation supports integrating these technologies, with California establishing dedicated wildfire technology research programs
• Experts emphasize that alongside technological advances, California must also embrace beneficial prescribed burning practices to reduce dangerous fuel buildup