Why Airport Fire Trucks Are So Unique

But headquartered in the same region is Oshkosh Corp., which—among other functions—is a major player in fire truck manufacturing. The firm also specializes in aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) equipment with its line of specialized trucks.

Oshkosh Corp. has carved a niche in the firefighting industry with its line of airport fire trucks. These specialized vehicles are designed to handle the unique challenges posed by aviation accidents, offering a level of capability that sets them apart.

Among these are water tanks that are significantly larger than those of traditional municipal fire trucks, ensuring that firefighters have ample water to combat large-scale fires without needing frequent refills. The fire trucks boast powerful pumps capable of delivering high-pressure water streams, essential for penetrating the outer skin of aircraft and reaching internal fires. Many of these vehicles are also outfitted with advanced foam systems that can create a blanket over fires, helping to suppress flames and reduce the spread of smoke.

The company’s Striker 8×8 model can hold up to 4,500 gallons of water and 630 gallons of foam at a time. In comparison, a normal municipal fire truck can hold around 1,500 gallons of water alone.

In addition to their water capacity and firefighting capabilities, these vehicles are designed to handle various terrain, including runways, taxiways, and grassy areas. Some of Oshkosh’s Striker models can go from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 35 seconds.

Over 5,000 Oshkosh Striker vehicles have been made and shipped to airports around the globe. The company is also rolling out an electric fire truck called Volterra, which has already been adopted by some airports.

AirlineGeeks had the opportunity to visit Oshkosh’s manufacturing facility in its namesake city. A video from the tour is below:

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on AirlineGeeks.com.