Colorado Tested Precision Wildfire Suppression Device
The Center of Excellence conducted controlled drops of a new aerial suppression system near Grand Junction.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Emergency Response
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Colorado's Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Aerial Firefighting has tested a new device designed to suppress wildfires from extreme altitudes. Developed by Prime Minute, the technology releases 110 gallons of water in a concentrated 35-foot radius.
Why it matters
The system is designed to reach areas difficult for ground crews to access, potentially overcoming limitations caused by smoke, darkness, or high winds that ground traditional aerial operations.
The Precision Guided Suppression Unit is deployed from an altitude of 12,000 feet. It delivers 110 gallons of water to cover a 35-foot suppression radius upon reaching the ground.
The players
Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Aerial Firefighting
This Colorado-based organization leads research and testing efforts for innovative wildfire suppression technologies.
Prime Minute
This technology firm developed the aerial firefighting system featuring guidance capabilities and fins for high-altitude drops.
The details
The device features a guidance system and integrated fins that allow it to reach the ground accurately before releasing a concentrated burst of water. These tests at High Lonesome Ranch build upon previous disaster history in the area, specifically the 2020 Pine Gulch Fire.
Timeline
The Pine Gulch Fire burned land at High Lonesome Ranch in 2020.
Researchers plan to perform follow-up tests on scheduled fires in 2027.
The system may see deployment on unscheduled fires during the 2028 fire season.
Seasonal Patterns
The testing program utilizes the site of the 2020 Pine Gulch Fire to validate new suppression technology in real-world environmental conditions. This initiative marks a significant advancement in wildfire management as agencies look to mitigate the increased frequency of large-scale blaze events.
While the technology is currently in the testing phase, it aims to improve future safety by providing more effective tools for managing remote wildfires. Residents in fire-prone regions should continue to follow official guidance from local authorities regarding evacuation routes and wildfire preparedness.
The takeaway
Advancing aerial suppression technology could soon allow responders to combat wildfires with greater precision from higher altitudes. These systems aim to minimize the physical risk to ground crews by accessing terrain that is otherwise difficult or dangerous to navigate.
What happens next
Researchers are scheduled to conduct additional testing phases on controlled fires throughout 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to modernize safety tactics in the Emergency Response section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CBS News.
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