A mobile retardant base and Skycrane helitankers operate as part of Operation Sky Hammer to conduct rapid initial attack operations on wildfires within the Rocky Mountain area, May 7, 2026. Utilizing two Skycrane helitankers capable of delivering 2,400 gallons of water or retardant per drop, the rapid‑response team coordinates with ground personnel to suppress newly ignited blazes and prevent small fire starts from expanding into catastrophic wildfires. (Forest Service video by Travis Weger)
