TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 3 - 2019 MAFFS Operating Plan.pdf

6 August 2019

Operations

MAFFS OPERATING PLAN

OPERA TIO NS AUTHORITIES

AND INSTRUMENTS

.MODULAR AIRBORNE FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEM (MAFFS)

DEPLOYMENT, OPERA TIO NS AND TRAINING

Paul Linse

Reviewed By: MAFFS Training Officer, Depl!-tY /4ssistant Director, Operations - NIFC

Kim Christensen .J><f - �- - b/: � _ '- .J

Certified By: Assistant Director,_ Aviation- Wteadquarters

Jeff Power / I . µ), // - ----------- --

Certified By: National MLO, Assistant Director for Operations - NIFC

BethLund ��

Supersedes 2016 MAFFS Operating Plan Distribution: USFS/F AM, BLM/ A VN, NGB/ A3, AFRC/ A3, AMC/ A3, AEG/CC, CAL FIRE

D.6 - Technical Exhibit 3

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ACCESSIBILITY: This publication is available digitally on the National Interagency

Coordination Center web site https://www.nifc.gov/nicc/logistics/references/MAFFS_Operations_Plan

.pdf.

RELEASABILITY: Attachment 4 contains PII, shall not be released to the general public, and shall only be made available to authorized personnel.

This instruction implements Forest Service Operations Guidelines for the Modular Airborne Fire

Fighting Systems (MAFFS) training and operations program. It provides guidance regarding the activation, operation, and training; and outlines actions associated with MAFFS operations. This publication applies to Air National Guard (ANG) Wings and Air Force Reserve (AFRC) Wings authorized for MAFFS deployment and agency employees holding the appropriate wildland firefighting certifications for MAFFS operations. Restrictions in this document may only be waived by the NMLO or Deputy NMLO unless otherwise specified. The attachments in this publication may be updated individually without the update of the whole instruction and will be dated accordingly to ensure that the most current copy of the attachment is referenced for operational purposes. A supplement to this instruction may be issued with each update.

Attachments shall be identified as secure or releasable. Secure attachments shall not be released to the general public.

WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES

The following definitions apply “Warnings,” “Cautions,” and “Notes” found throughout the operations plan.

Operating procedures, techniques, etc., which could result in personal injury and/or loss of life if not carefully followed.

Operating procedures, techniques, etc., which could result in damage to equipment if not carefully followed.

An operating procedure, technique, or method considered essential to emphasize.

WARNING

CAUTION

NOTE

https://www.nifc.gov/nicc/logistics/references/MAFFS_Operations_Plan.pdf https://www.nifc.gov/nicc/logistics/references/MAFFS_Operations_Plan.pdf

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USE OF WORDS MUST, SHALL, MAY, AND WILL

The following definitions apply to words “shall,” “will,” “may” and “should” found throughout the manual:

Must or Shall – Action is mandatory and full compliance is required.

May – Action is optional.

Should – Action is mandatory, unless a justifiable reason exists for not taking action. The use of “should” signals extenuating circumstances are likely to occur at times.

Will – Does not convey a degree of restriction or mandate action. The use of “will” applies only to a statement of future condition or an expression of time.

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1 6

OBJECTIVE, POLICY AND RESPONSIBILITIES 6

1.1. Objective

1.2. Policy

1.3. Responsibilities

Chapter 2 7

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES 7

2.1. Ordering Procedures

2.2. MAFFS Aircraft, Equipment, & Wing Assignments

2.3. MAFFS Operating Bases

2.4 Liaison

2.5. Pre-Mission Requirements

2.6. Mission Support Requirements

2.7. Mission Operations

2.8. MAFFS Operation Safety

2.9. Release and Deactivation

Chapter 3 20

MAFFS SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND PERFORMANCE INFORMATION 20

3.1. MAFFS System Maintenance

3.2. MAFFS Performance Information

Chapter 4 21

TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS 21

4.1 Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) 21

4.2 Requirements 21

4.3. Forest Service and Interagency Personnel

ATTACHMENT 1 32

REQUEST LETTER EXAMPLE / MEMORANDUMS OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) 32

A1.1. Example of MAFFS Request to US Northern Command A1.2. Interagency Agreement DOD, USFS, DOI A1.3 State of California Agreement A1.4. Nevada Agreement A1.5. Wyoming Agreement

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ATTACHMENT 2 52

ORGANIZATIONAL AND OPERATIONAL DETAILS 52

A2.1. MAFFS Standard Base Organization Guidelines

A2.2. MAFFS Liaison Officers A2.3. MAFFS Project Aviation Safety Plan A2.4. Serial Numbers & Locations A2.5. Aircraft Details

ATTACHMENT 3 79

COMMUNICATIONS 79

A3.1. MAFFS Communication Information

A3.2. RADIO QUICK REFERENCE GUIDES

ATTACHMENT 4 84

SECURE MAFFS OPERATIONS INFORMATION 84

A4.1. MAFFS Liaison Officers and National Leadership A4.2. MAFFS Airtanker Base Personnel A4.3. MAFFS Personnel Training Charts (sample) A4.3. Maintenance Personnel

A4.4. MAFFS Communications Specialist

A4.5. Leadplane Personnel A4.6. Flight Crews

A4.7 MAFFS Mission Commanders A4.8. MAFFS Operating Bases

Supplement Date Description

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Chapter 1

OBJECTIVE, POLICY AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.1. Objective.

To provide a surge capability supplementing commercial large airtanker support on wildland fires through airborne delivery of fire retardant.

1.2. Policy.

Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS) are national resources and are used as a reinforcement measure when contract large airtankers are committed or not readily available.

Requests for federal utilization of Department of Defense (DoD) aviation or other assets are reviewed and shall comply with the Economy Act of June 30, 1932. MAFFS may also be activated in several states when requested under an appropriate state Memorandum of

Understanding (MOU); see Attachment 1 for copies of MOUs. MAFFS may also be made available to assist foreign governments when requested through the Department of State or other diplomatic MOU.

1.3. Responsibilities.

1.3.1. The National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC) at Boise, ID, in coordination with Forest Service Operations is responsible for ascertaining all suitable contract large airtankers nationally are committed to incidents or initial attack need, and not readily available, or are otherwise unable to meet the timeframe requirements of a request.

1.3.2. The Forest Service (FS) Assistant Director for Operations (ADO), located at the

National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) is the National MAFFS Liaison Officer (NMLO).

The NMLO or their Acting is responsible for approving a request for MAFFS in coordination with the FS Assistant Director for Aviation. Alternatively, in their absence, the FS Assistant

Director for Aviation, located in the Fire & Aviation Management (FAM) Washington Office

(WO) is responsible. Once approval is given, the NICC Manager will activate the request through proper DoD channels; see 2.1.

1.3.3. The FS ADO, NIFC (or their Acting) will notify the Director, FAM, prior to MAFFS activation if at all reasonably possible.

1.3.4. The Governors of California, Wyoming and Nevada may activate the appropriate Air

National Guard Unit for MAFFS missions within state boundaries or under state agreements to other states provided such action is covered by an appropriate MOU(s)/Agreements with the military authority and the FS.

1.3.5. Activation of C-130 DoD aircraft is under the authority and responsibility of DoD.

1.3.6. The FS and the DoD are responsible for maintaining proficient air crews and support personnel that can respond with promptness and reliability to the assigned mission.

1.3.7. The FS is responsible for the maintenance of the dispensing systems.

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Chapter 2

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES

2.1. Ordering Procedures.

2.1.1. Federal Domestic.

2.1.1.1. Federal requests will be placed through established channels, to NICC by the

Geographic Area Coordination Center (GACC) or by direction of the National Multi-

Agency Coordinating Group (NMAC).

2.1.1.2. The NICC will advise the FS ADO of the availability of suitable exclusive use contract airtankers. The NICC will, after receiving the FS ADO’s approval, place a request to the DoD. The request will indicate number of MAFFS, activation location, and time needed. The NICC will coordinate response times with the AEG/CC or their staff. At a minimum a lead plane and retardant base will be identified prior to mission operations.

2.1.1.2.1 MAFFS Ordering Procedures. Listed below is the ordering process for federal activation of MAFFS:

2.1.1.2.1.1. Initial request for MAFFS assistance should be placed directly with the NIFC Defense Coordinating Officer (DCO). In the event DCO is unavailable, order will go direct to USNORTHCOM.

USNORTHCOM – 24 Hours Phone: (719) 556-0435, alternate 719-554-2359

FAX: (719)-554-7207

Email: n-nc.peterson.n-ncn2c2.mbx.interagency-omb@mail.mil

Contact: Joint Staff Watch Officer

2.1.1.2.1.2. Subsequent requests for MAFFS assistance will be placed to

USNORTHCOM through the NIFC DCO. An example of the request to

USNORTHCOM to activate MAFFS can be found in Attachment 1. Direct contact will be made with US NORTHCOM if DCO is unavailable.

2.1.1.3. Crew names (Aircraft Commander (AC), Copilot (CP), and Loadmaster (LM)) must correspond to the qualified list as updated on their DoD website. The assigned

MAFFS Liaison Officer (MAFF) along with the Air Force Expeditionary Airlift

Squadron (Provisional) Mission Commander (EAS(P)/MC or MC) will check flight crew qualification status from the current list. As qualification statuses change, Military will provide updated list to the National MAFFS Liaison Officer.

NOTE

In most cases MAFFS will be operational within 48 to 72 hours from notification. Under circumstances where expedited response is necessary, the NICC in concurrence with the AEG/CC may request a specific MAFFS Airlift Wing (AW) in lieu of the established callout plan. This request will normally be of shorter duration and the request will be terminated or amended once the need has been met.

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2.1.2. International. The Department of State, Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance

(OFDA), will request the international use of MAFFS through the USFS International

Programs (IP) Disaster Assistance Support Program (DASP). After the contact by OFDA the

DASP will place the order through NICC, located at NIFC, Boise, ID.

2.1.3. State. The Governor of a State may activate the Air National Guard AW having

MAFFS equipment and qualified crews for fires under their own state or state to state jurisdiction. Approval for use of the MAFFS equipment must be obtained from the FS ADO or their designee prior to activation. When MAFFS are activated by a governor, the GACC or host agency will create a unique reimbursable/billable Fire Code (PNXXXX) for the activation. State agreements can be found in Attachment 1.

2.2. MAFFS Aircraft, Equipment, & Wing Assignments.

2.2.1 MAFFS Aircraft Numbers. MAFFS aircraft numbers are historical and may not correspond to the system number or color ID installed in the aircraft. See marking scheme diagram in Attachment 2.

2.2.2 MAFFS Serial Numbers and Locations. Location, type, weights, and identification information for MAFFS are located in Attachment 2.

2.2.3. Compressors. There are six (6) ground based diesel compressors available for deployment. The compressors are located with the Guard / Reserve AWs that operate

MAFFS. Locations for these compressors can vary throughout the year. Preferred transport of compressors is by military aircraft. However, over road transport is an acceptable alternative when aerial transport is not timely or cost effective.

Insure that the following USFS MAFFS equipment is deployed with your Air Wings

(AW) when you are activated or for training. Please also insure that these items are returned to their respective AW upon MAFFS deactivation.

The STANDARD MAFFS package will consist of the following items:

a. MAFFS SYSTEM

b. S DUCT AND CART

c. DOOR AND CRADLE

d. MAFFS PARTS/TOOLS CONTAINER

e. GROUND AIR COMPRESSORS – First AW on site

OPTIONAL ITEMS THAT CAN BE DEPLOYED:

a. GROUND AIR COMPRESSORS as additional AWs are ordered

b. MAFFS TRAILER

c. MAFFS PARTS DEPOT KIT (Located at NTD AND BOI)

d. MAFFS SUPPORT PALLET (Located at NTD)

NOTE

One compressor should be deployed per activation within the first 5 days (see 2.6.4).

Diesel compressor weight is 6,000 pounds and measures 297 cubic feet.

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2.2.4. Portable Base Kit Pallet Locations. Three portable base kits (PBK), each with a backflow preventer valve, gasoline pump, water reservoir, and hoses are available at a designated air tanker base (currently at JEFFCO-11/28/17) for use during training exercises only. A current inventory sheet for each portable base shall be maintained and included in each kit. Portable base pallet weight is approximately 6,000 pounds. The Chair of the

MABM Steering Group will coordinate with the MAFFS Training Officer (MTO) on locating the PBKs.

2.3. MAFFS Operating Bases.

2.3.1. Base Requirements.

2.3.1.1. Airport Facilities. MAFFS operations require a large paved airport facility.

runways, taxiways, loading ramp weight, aircraft clearance from structures, and qualified base personnel are required for FS and DoD approval of a facility.

2.3.1.2. Aircraft Spacing. A typical loading area for portable base operations must have

240 feet separation, nose wheel to nose wheel of the next aircraft. Where C-130H aircraft are used exclusively the separation distance may be reduced to 200 feet.

2.3.1.3. Additional Equipment. Additional requirements include availability of single point jet fuel, liquid oxygen (LOX) and a generous parking area for support aircraft. It is also desirable to have a military C-130 support facility (bed down base) within a 300 mile radius for repair support. See Attachment 4.

2.3.1.4. Mobile Retardant Base (MRB). Where the activation is not located at an existing permanent airtanker base, a contractor provided Mobile Retardant Base (MRB) must be ordered. The GACC may order equipment and personnel from the national contract. Sufficient MAFFS Base Specialist (MABS) and ramp support personnel shall be ordered to assist the MABM in conducting ramp operations for the activation.

2.3.2. Base Approval. Any base proposed for MAFFS operations requires prior concurrence and approval by the DoD and the US Forest Service. The AEG and MTO coordinate for these approvals.

NOTE

Normally retardant for fire activations will be provided from an existing tanker base or from a contractor provided Mobile Retardant Base (MRB) rather than a PBK.

CAUTION

Runways, taxiways, and ramps are required to allow operations with Single Tandem main gear at 155,000 pounds (ST-155) gross weight for C-130H aircraft and 165,000 pounds (ST-165) gross weight for C-130J aircraft. Evaluation for Dual main gear provides an approximation where Single Tandem is not available. The AEG should be contacted for additional requirements needed for approval. Wing Tip clearance of less than 25 feet requires use of an aircraft marshaller. Minimum acceptable clearance is 10 feet.

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2.3.3. Base Management. Attachments 2 and 4 have a current listing of MAFFS airtanker base management and support personnel needed for activations.

2.4 Liaison.

2.4.1. A MAFFS Liaison Officer and an Air Force EAS(P)-WFF/MC shall be assigned to each activation. A listing of MAFFS Liaison Officers (MAFF) and a listing of EAS(P)-

WFF/MC (MC) can both be found in Attachment 4. The MAFF (or MALO) and MC will normally arrive in advance of the MAFFS aircraft. Their arrival will not delay use if a leadplane and retardant are available. The MAFF duties are in Attachment 2.

2.4.1.1. The MAFF is responsible to the NMLO, for execution of the activation.

Coordination with the Geographic Area Coordinator will occur as appropriate. The

MAFF position is the liaison for the using agency or agencies and the DoD organization supplying MAFFS service.

2.4.2. EAS(P)-WFF/MC. The EAS(P)-WFF/MC shall function as a non-flying Mission

Commander (MC) for the DoD assets. On rare occasions, the MC may fly to retain mission currency. All information and orders from the MAFF shall be channeled through the MC unless the MC specifically requests otherwise.

2.4.3. Lodging and Transportation. The MAFF or their designee (normally the agency assigned purchase agent) shall have responsibility for working with the MC in arranging crew lodging and transportation. Consideration can be given to using nearby DoD facilities if available, to simplify support arrangements. Where advantageous to support fire operations MAFFS may Remain-Over-Night (RON) at the reload base with approval from

MAFF and AEG. During RON situations the local base manager shall assist in security for the aircraft and lodging and transportation for the crew.

2.4.4. International Assignments. International assignments may be accepted after a risk assessment is completed for review from the Assistant Director of Operations, FAM, or acting. Final approval shall be obtained from the National Fire Director, FAM. Ideally, personnel requested will deploy with the aircraft tasked to support the international assignment. The MAFF, MABM, MAFFS Leadplane Pilot (LPIL), and MC positions will be filled for international MAFFS assignments. Two MAFFS Maintenance Personnel will be ordered. Military personnel may be requested to assist as needed in maintenance support of

NOTE

The MAFF shall be familiar with this MAFFS Operating Plan/Forest Service Instruction

(FSI), the FS F&AM policies and procedures, and DoD operational assistance programs.

See Attachment 2 Organizational and Operational Detail for current MAFF duties and responsibilities.

NOTE

See Attachment 4 for a list of approved bases that should be capable of supporting a

MAFFS operation and for bases approved for MAFFS reloading operations.

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the system while at the international location. Requesting U.S. Embassy will provide a representative and interpreter, if necessary, to assist the MAFF and MC.

Initially no more than two systems shall be committed to allow for adequate surge capability on domestic fires. Additional requests for support beyond two systems will be made to the

USFS Director FAM, after the first two systems have arrived in the host country.

2.4.5. State Activations. States with MAFFS aircraft may activate those aircraft for state needs after coordinating with ADO or their designee. Aircraft will only be released for a state activation after assessing national needs for MAFFS aircraft. For state activations, standard MAFF staffing is recommended. With approval of the ADO a reduced staffing with a MALO filling the role of the MAFF, or a MAFFS Airbase Specialist (MABS) filling the role as a MABM may be approved. A minimum of two MAFFS Maintenance Personnel shall be ordered. The state will order a qualified MAFFS Leadplane Pilot and aircraft to support the operation.

2.5. Pre-Mission Requirements.

2.5.1. Flight Crew Certification. The MAFF and MC shall verify that the MAFFS flight crews are current and proficient.

2.5.1.1. Currency. A structured certification exercise in conjunction with the Forest

Service is required annually. MAFFS airdrop currency is required annually. Dispensing a minimum of three loads of retardant on actual fire missions may extend the flight currency an additional year if approved by the AMC/A3. The MTO will coordinate with

AWs POC for support of the annual currency for flight crews.

2.5.2. MAFFS Communication. MAFFS aircraft shall have a VHF-FM radio installed and tested prior to deployment. The MAFFS FM Radio and associated technical services will be supplied by the National Interagency Incident Communication Division (NIICD) at NIFC.

(See Section 2.6.3) The NIICD Avionics Branch Chief will be point of contact for all

MAFFS Communications issues. A current listing of MAFFS Communications Specialists can be found in Attachment 4.

2.5.3. MAFFS Communication Equipment. MAFFS communication equipment will be supplied from the National Interagency Radio Support (NIRSC) cache. A NFES 4660

Airbase kit is required at all MAFFS bases. Specific requirements for communication equipment and the duties of the MAFFS Communications Specialist can be found in

Attachment 3.

2.5.4. Automated Flight Following. NIFC shall provide aircraft satellite tracking equipment for automated flight following of all MAFFS configured aircraft. Trackers should remain on for sorties from departing until returning to home station.

NOTE

Aircraft satellite tracking units must be charged daily or have batteries replaced after use to ensure signal reception throughout the flight period.

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2.5.5. System Functional Check.

A Pre-Flight test of the MAFFS functionality should occur with a 2000 gallon water minimum discharge each time the system is installed on an aircraft prior to loading with retardant. This check should occur in three parts to test drop control pendants and emergency dump functionality.

a) First with the copilot pendant and a quantity at 1/6 tank volume and a coverage level setting at 4.

b) Second with the Loadmaster pendant and a quantity at 1/6 tank volume and a coverage level setting at 4.

c) While the drop is initiated from step B, execute an E-DUMP from the Loadmaster switch and allow the system to complete the E-DUMP command.

This check should occur at home station prior to departure.

2.6. Mission Support Requirements.

2.6.1. Ground Personnel. Organization support requirements are outlined in the MAFFS

Standard Base Organization Guidelines contained in Attachment 2.

2.6.1.1. State and Federal employees engaged in MAFFS support functions are authorized to be transported via DoD aircraft point to point, subject to DoD/DOT restrictions.

2.6.2. Leadplane. MAFFS missions shall be flown under the supervision of a qualified

MAFFS Leadplane /Aerial Supervision Module. Information on qualified MAFFS Leadplane

Pilots can be found in Attachment 4.

2.6.2.1. On fire activations, Leadplane Pilots In Training may lead MAFFS aircraft while under the direct supervision of a Leadplane Instructor Pilot. Trainees will normally be well into phase 2 of their training, receive approval from their assigned mentor, and document a briefing with the instructor pilot in their training folder prior to leading

MAFFS. Trainees may not lead MAFFS during the annual certification exercise.

2.6.2.2. International MAFFS missions shall utilize a qualified MAFFS Leadplane Pilot in the MAFFS aircraft to assist the Aircraft Commander with tactical requirements.

Tactical requirements could include coordinating with other aircraft over the fire, communicating with ground crews, recommending retardant placement locations, and recommending coverage levels. Appropriate DoD approval must be obtained prior to flying civilian personnel aboard MAFFS aircraft.

2.6.3. Communications. All communications needs for MAFFS operations will be directed to the NIICD at NIFC. The NIICD Command Duty Officer (CDO) (208) 387-5644 will issue/approve all frequencies for MAFFS operations. The NIICD Chief, in consultation with the CDO, will approve all MAFFS equipment.

2.6.3.1. Incident operations require VHF-AM frequencies. These frequencies will be furnished to the activation by the CDO. FS Air Guard (168.6250 MHz w/Tone 110.9) shall constantly be monitored.

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2.6.3.2. The NIICD shall furnish AWs one VHF-FM TDFM-136 aeronautical radio

(NFES 4545) per MAFFS aircraft. These radios will be assigned to AWs during spring training or prior to the fire season. All radios assigned to AWs must be annually exchanged with like radios from the NIICD at the end of the fire season, no later than

December 30. This ensures radios are properly functioning and have current software.

2.6.3.3. MAFFS crews must be able to operate and be familiar with the capabilities of the VHF-FM radio prior to being assigned to MAFFS duty.

2.6.3.4. Communication kits to support ground MAFFS operations can be found in

Attachment 2.

2.6.3.5. Additional NIICD Avionics Information is available at:

http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/index.html

2.6.3.6. All MAFFS aircraft shall enter transponder code of 1255 enroute to, within, and from Fire Traffic Area (FTA) unless Air Traffic Control (ATC) assigns a different code.

2.6.4. Compressors. Ground compressors provide a direct charge to the MAFFS system and reduce recovery time between refill cycles. The MAFFS charge cycle when using ground compressors alone is approximately 14 minutes.

2.6.4.1. A ground compressor should be ordered by the MAFF for each domestic

MAFFS activation. The compressor may be ordered after the activation base is established and the MAFF has coordinated with the MC for the best method of transportation.

2.6.4.2. Specific oils are needed for the diesel compressors. Contact MAFFS

Maintenance personnel for more specific information.

2.6.4.3. Fuel purchases for the compressor diesel fuel and gasoline powered portable pumps are the responsibility of the agency. The ground based diesel compressors use approximately 15 gallons of diesel fuel per day. The pumps for loading water from the portable kits use gasoline. They use approximately 25 gallons per day. Contractors are required to provide fuel for contract operations from MRBs (See MRBs in 2.3).

2.6.4.4 When on board compressor use is necessary, the following procedures should be followed to minimize wear:

Onboard Compressing Without Ground Compressor Assistance

Watch gauges and only compress 300 to 500 psi at a time. If compression is slow, turn off compressors and wait 5 to 10 minutes for them to cool off, turn them back on, repeat the process until you get 1,050 psi for a full load release. If doing multiple drop loads compress to 1,175 psi. The on-board compressors cannot run continuously to charge from 0 to 1,175 psi without putting undo stress on compressor motors.

http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/index.html

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Onboard Compressing With Ground Compressor Assistance

When loading at a base with a single ground compressor, filling the system with air can take up to 16 minutes to load from 0 to 1,175 psi. If load time is a concern or causes a back-up of aircraft it is preferable to pre-charge air prior to arriving at tanker base with 400-500 PSI in HP reservoirs. Follow compression recommendation in paragraph 1 to reach desired pressure. Ground compressors will be able to load remaining air in reservoirs to 1,175 psi in same amount of time as retardant loading.

Ground Compressing With Piggy Backed Ground Compressors

If two or more ground compressors are connected together to simultaneously charge a system, there is no need to on-board compress at all to save time filling at base. The systems can be charged from 0 to 1,175 in less time than retardant can be loaded.

2.6.5. Forklift. A minimum 6,000 pounds capacity low mast forklift with long forks is required to offload compressors and spare parts. See MAFF duties, Attachment 2.

2.6.6. Loading and Water Supply. All loading of liquid concentrate retardants into

MAFFS aircraft require a suitable mass flow metering device to insure the specific gravity and weight of the on-load. Where a mass flow meter is not readily available, one shall be ordered. A refractometer is provided in each field kit and will be used to take regular readings (every minute) in the absence of a mass flow meter. Powdered products that are batch mixed will be sampled for specific gravity prior to loading and at least once from the stream of retardant during the loading process. LAQA will be taken for each load.

Maximum aircraft loading rate should not exceed 500 g.p.m. The water supply to the water storage tank should provide a minimum of 100 g.p.m. Aircraft wash down capability should be provided at the activation location.

2.6.7. High Visibility Marking. The FS shall furnish high visibility fluorescent tape for mission and training flights.

2.6.7.1. The DoD shall apply tape to each MAFFS aircraft with minimum area as specified in Attachment 2.

Aircraft markings as described in Attachment 2 are required for firefighting operations.

MAFFS aircraft conducting aircrew certification flight shall be marked as per Attachment

2 requirements. Aircraft substituted for fully marked MAFFS aircraft can be considered on a case by case basis. Substituted aircraft must be marked with block areas on the wings, horizontal, and vertical stabilizers. No more than 1 substituted aircraft shall be marked without a MAFFS number or numerical marking to differentiate aircraft.

2.6.7.2. The tape is manufactured by 3M and is listed by them as: 334-4340 3M

Scotchcal ElectroCut 7725SE-414 Red-Orange 24” X 50 yards.

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2.6.8. MAFFS Maintenance. All maintenance requirements of the MAFFS and ground compressors shall be coordinated by the FS National MAFFS Program Manager or their designee.

2.6.8.1. Each AW assigned MAFFS have a tool and spare parts bin (field kit) furnished to them by the FS. The AW should transport this bin to the activation base when reporting for MAFFS duty.

2.6.8.2. The Loadmaster of each MAFFS flight crew is required to enter in the MAFFS maintenance log each discrepancy experienced during the operation of the system. Each discrepancy shall be reported to and corrected by the MAFFS Maintenance Personnel assigned to the mission as soon as practical. A list of current MAFFS Maintenance

Personnel can be found in Attachment 4.

2.6.9. Aircraft Fueling. C-130 aircraft require approximately 1,000 gallons of jet fuel per hour. Fuel purchase is the responsibility of the MC or Aircraft Commander (AC). A DoD source is first priority, commercial contract is second, and private commercial is last.

2.6.9.1. Types of fuel required are JP4, JP8, or commercial Jet A.

2.6.9.2. Simultaneous fueling and retardant loading is not allowed.

2.7. Mission Operations.

2.7.1. Standard Operating Procedures. All employment of MAFFS on incidents shall conform to standard operating procedures established for contract airtankers, unless specifically modified by this Operation Plan.

2.7.1.1. Other than assigned USAF aircrew members and limited assigned USAF

Combat Camera staff , non-essential personnel shall NOT fly on MAFFS aircraft during a training or operational tactical mission. Waivers will be on a case by case basis requested through the MC to the AEG/CC and NMLO, in accordance with applicable directives. If the AEG/CC and NMLO or alternate grant a waiver, the MAFF shall document this on an

ICS-214 and in the Operational Summary state the circumstances that the waiver was granted.

2.7.1.2. The MC will evaluate aircraft performance based on current conditions at the activation site. The aircraft commander is the final authority for launching DoD aircraft when aircraft performance is in question. Downloading the quantity of retardant is acceptable to meet performance criteria for the activation location.

2.7.1.3. If a dispatch is cancelled after loading of retardant, the MAFF will normally coordinate with the MC, MABM, and hosting base manager for the offload or jettison the load within appropriate timeframes.

2.7.1.4. For a divert or inflight redirection to a new fire assignment and/or a reload base within the GACC, the dispatch unit providing the information to the aircraft will also immediately notify the MAFFS Host Base ATBM of the new assignment, location, and expected reload base in order to insure MC visibility. The MC or AEG/CC may refuse the assignment if the new ORM evaluation exceeds military standards.

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2.7.1.5. Flight crews should target an altitude closer to 150 feet above the vegetation for the most effective drop at all coverage levels.

2.7.1.6. MAFFS normally will not land fully loaded, so when necessary, jettison areas must be designated by the controlling agency. MAFFS should jettison at 500 feet or more above ground level (AGL). If the jettison location is designated by the controlling agency to be a fire incident, clearance from the controlling Incident Commander or controlling aerial supervision must be obtained prior to MAFFS entering the Fire Traffic

Area (FTA) and in no case shall the drop occur below 500 feet AGL. If the load is jettisoned or dispensed adjacent to a runway or in an aerodrome environment the drop should be no lower than 150 feet AGL. A leadplane is not needed to jettison the load under either of these conditions. Emergency jettison of the load, not in the fire area, must be reported to MAFF with the altitude, volume, and location of discharge.

2.7.1.7. MAFFS airdrops shall be conducted during daylight hours. Daylight hours are defined as 30 minutes prior to sunrise, until 30 minutes after sunset. Airdrops after sunset are permitted with concurrence of the Aircraft Commander and the MAFFS

Airtanker Coordinator (Leadplane Pilot) and in accordance with the Interagency Aerial

Supervision Guide (IASG NFES 2544). Recoveries may be accomplished after daylight hours.

2.7.2 Flight and Duty Limitations. Flight time shall not be planned to exceed a total of 8 hours per day.

2.7.2.1. A normal duty day for MAFFS operations is limited to 12 hours. Non-MAFFS operations may be authorized beyond 12 hours IAW current DoD instruction. (Reference

AFI 11-2C-130, Vol. 3)

2.7.2.2. Within any 24 hour period, aircrews shall have a minimum of 12 consecutive hours off duty immediately prior to the beginning of any duty day.

2.7.2.3. Duty includes flight time, ground duty of any kind, and standby or alert status at any location.

2.7.2.4. During any 16 consecutive days, aircrews shall be off duty for two full calendar days. Days off duty need not be consecutive. The MC and MAFF must assure this requirement is upheld. This requirement may be waived IAW DoD instructions and concurrence from the MC, the crew, and the MAFF.

2.7.2.5 Standby status. During an assigned shift, in the absence of flight operations or necessary maintenance tasks, DoD personnel are considered to be on standby status. The

MAFF should provide for suitable, preferably climate controlled, areas on-base for flight and maintenance crews to stage. Under certain conditions the MAFF may authorize

“hotel standby”. This authorization is conditional and shall take into account current fire activity, anticipated short term conditions and the location where DoD personnel are lodged. If appropriate, the MAFF, after consultation with the MC and MABM, may authorize hotel standby provided the response time from the hotel does not exceed fifteen

(15) minutes from the time of receipt of a new dispatch. The MAFF shall have sole authority to approve or revoke hotel standby at their discretion.

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2.7.3. Flight Following. NIFC shall provide C-130 H/J mission deployed aircraft aircraft with satellite tracking equipment for automated flight following of all MAFFS configured aircraft.

2.7.4. Deployment to New Location.

2.7.4.1. When MAFFS are requested to deploy to a new location after initial activation/deployment (whether within or to another GACC), NICC will provide written notification of relocation to the NIFC Defense Coordination Officer (DCO). The DCO will process the relocation notification through DoD channels.

2.7.4.2. NICC will keep the AEG/CC and MAFF informed on redeployment decisions.

2.7.5. Accident/Incident Reporting Procedures. NICC shall be informed immediately by the MAFF of all accidents/incidents. NICC will notify the National MAFFS Program

Manager, NIFC DCO, the NMLO in Boise and the Assistant Director for Aviation in

Washington DC of all accidents/incidents.

2.7.5.1. When a DoD aircraft being used on an Agency incident is involved in a mishap or incident, the Agency policy on accident/incident reporting shall be followed.

2.7.5.1.1. All incidents shall be reported to the Regional Office by the MAFF as soon as possible. (FS-5700-14 SAFECOM Aviation Safety Communiqué)

2.7.5.1.2. Additionally, make an initial report for any accident or incident with potential to 1-888-4MISHAP (888-464-7427). This task may be delegated to the

Regional Aviation Safety Manager.

2.7.5.2. The DoD is responsible for accident investigations of their aircraft. Agency employees will assist in securing the accident site if required and facilitating the DoD accident team investigation. An Agency may request participation in any accident involving DoD aircraft on Agency incidents. Participation may be in a formal or informal capacity at the discretion of the DoD.

2.7.6. Public Information Releases. The MAFF and MC will work in cooperation with the

Public Information Officer (PIO) and/or the Public Affairs Officer (PAO) to provide the necessary coverage of MAFFS operations. All media releases will be coordinated through the MAFF and MC.

2.7.7. Operations Procurement Support. Upon MAFFS activation, DoD shall provide an estimate of cost for the operation to be provided to the FS Financial Manager at NIFC. This estimate will be used to authorize funding. The FS will execute a reimbursement/advance of funds agreement (AD-672) to the appropriate DoD unit for authorization to expend funds for operational support for the MAFFS mission.

NOTE

If aircraft satellite tracking equipment is not installed, or do not function correctly, flight following shall occur in accordance with the National Mobilization Guide (NFES 2092).

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2.7.7.1. The authority of funds is for operational support for the MAFFS mission, and can include, but is not limited to, the items below. A copy of the interagency agreement is provided in Attachment 1.

2.7.7.1.1. Flight Hours (deployment, crew swap, support, and redeployment)

2.7.7.1.2. Salary and overtime

2.7.7.1.3. Lodging and Meals

2.7.7.1.4. Rental Cars/Gas

2.7.7.1.5. Support Equipment (Reefer trucks, Port-a-potties, Trailers, Copier, Facsimile, etc.)

2.7.7.1.6. Miscellaneous Supplies (Pens, Pencils, Copy Machine Paper, etc.)

2.7.7.1.7. Rental of Office Space

2.7.7.1.8. Immediate Medical Treatment (Agency Provided Medical Care, APMC)

2.7.7.2. While the RFA is normally written for 30 days, for financial estimates, initially anticipate that the DoD length of assignment (deployment) may last up to 14 consecutive days maximum. Cost tracking methods must be in-place at all times by category. Cost estimates should be sent by the MAFF to the USFS Financial Manager at NIFC daily.

The AEG staff should provide information nightly as requested by the MAFF to meet this requirement.

2.8. MAFFS Operation Safety.

It is the responsibility of all personnel involved with a MAFFS operation to be aware and practice safety.

2.9. Release and Deactivation.

Under the authorization of the FS ADO the following shall apply:

2.9.1. When fire conditions moderate or a sufficient number of commercial airtankers become available nationally, MAFFS will be released by NICC with NMAC approval.

Advance notification of 24 to 36 hours is requested to provide for an orderly release of personnel and equipment.

2.9.2. When release is contemplated by the GACC, NICC will be informed for determination of possible redeployment to other areas.

WARNING

MAFFS operations have a number of inherently hazardous conditions that require greater vigilance. Attachment 2 establishes those actions, roles and responsibilities, and compliance standards for all MAFFS operations.

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2.9.3. MAFFS Deactivation Release Checklist

2.9.3.1. Geographic Area Coordinators will initiate deactivation through normal channels to NICC. Information required:

2.9.3.1.1. Number of systems to be released.

2.9.3.1.2. C-130 aircraft identification and Aircraft Commander's name.

2.9.3.1.3 Base from which they will be released.

2.9.3.2. NICC will report release information to NIFC External Affairs and the NIFC

DCO.

2.9.3.3. NICC will confirm DoD release information through the Geographic Area

Coordinator to the MAFF and MC.

2.9.3.4. MAFF will provide NICC with estimated time of departure (ETD) and estimated time of arrival (ETA) times for released MAFFS aircraft.

2.9.3.5. Geographic Area Coordinator will report actual time of departure (ATD) of

MAFFS aircraft to NICC. The actual time of arrival (ATA) is reported by the AW to the

AEG who will report this information back to NICC.

2.9.3.6. MAFFS retardant tanks will be flushed two times with water after final retardant load. A ground flush is preferred. If this is not an option, an airborne flush may be performed. See jettison procedure under Standard Operating Procedures, 2.7.1.3.

2.9.3.7. While on international assignments, the MAFF, upon notification of release, will notify NICC of release and expected return to USA. NICC will then notify the NIFC

DCO. The DCO will make appropriate notification within DoD.

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Chapter 3

MAFFS SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

3.1. MAFFS System Maintenance.

3.1.1. MAFFS Systems. MAFFS systems shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s publications and follow on agency guidance. The MAFF provides oversight authority for this contract and may further designate government personnel to provide day to day oversight of the MAFFS Maintenance Personnel. Inspection, maintenance, and repair of

MAFFS are the responsibility of the FS National MAFFS Program Manager in coordination with the Aviation Airworthiness Branch Chief or their designee. Any issues on availability and maintenance will be reported by the MAFF to the FS National MAFFS Program

Manager or their designee.

3.1.1.1. When systems are deployed to a MAFFS exercise or activation, MAFFS

Maintenance Personnel are ordered. Attachment 4 contains a current list of MAFFS

MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL.

3.1.1.2. During an activation, all maintenance and repair of the systems shall be communicated to and coordinated as soon as practical with the MAFF (or their designee) by the MAFFS Maintenance Personnel on site.

3.1.1.3. MAFFS Maintenance Personnel should generally arrive an hour before the morning briefing to verify status of the system. At the end of the day MAFFS

Maintenance Personnel accomplish a post flight inspection and attempt to clear discrepancies, resolve deficiencies, and schedule necessary preventative maintenance.

MAFFS Maintenance Personnel are normally released with others unless there is critical work to be accomplished to return systems to ready status.

3.1.1.4. MAFFS Maintenance Personnel are limited to a 16 hour duty day, will normally have a 30 minute break at least every 6 hours, and shall have 2 days off in any 16 day period. The days off do not need to be consecutive.

3.2. MAFFS Performance Information.

3.2.1. MAFFS Capability.

3.2.1.1. Pressure controlled system produces coverage level 1 through 8 as needed per drop with quantities of full, half, one third, or one sixth of the full load.

3.2.1.2. Dispenses a continuous line at light application rates for up to ½ mile in length.

3.2.1.3. Currently operated at volumes up to 3,000 gallons of retardant. System capacity may be capable of up to 3,300 gallons with less dense liquids.

3.2.1.4. C-130 is a high performance aircraft. Cruise speed with MAFFS pintle installed is approximately 285 to 300 knots for both the H and J model aircraft.

3.2.1.5. Aircraft has military low visibility paint design. High visibility markings are added to wing tips and vertical stabilizer for visual detection.

3.2.1.6. Delivery altitudes are most at 150 above the vegetation.

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Chapter 4

TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS

4.1. Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS). The MAFFS mission is a joint mission performed by ANG, AFRC, and US Forest Service (USFS) personnel as a partnership with USFS as the lead federal agency.

4.1.1. This section describes initial certification and continuation training requirements for

MAFFS-certified C-130 crewmembers. OG/CCs of MAFFS Wings may provide additional guidance or clarification in local training procedures. However, this guidance shall not change or modify the MAFFS training program outside of the waiver authority. AFI 11-2C-

130, Volume 1 is the controlling document for aircrew training.

4.2. Requirements.

4.2.1. Conduct MAFFS Certification for pilots, navigators, flight engineers, and loadmasters

IAW the approved training syllabus. For planning purposes the normal crew ratio for MAFFS

Airlift Wings is 5.0 crews per MAFFS system. Two loadmasters are required per crew. Upon completion of training, as detailed in this instruction and the syllabus, crewmembers shall be certified for MAFFS missions.

4.2.1.1. NGB/A3 and AFRC/A3 in coordination with AMC/A3 is the approval and waiver authority for MAFFS aircrew training requirements.

4.2.1.2. Time Period for Mission Certification Training. Annual MAFFS Certification will be coordinated by the MTO with each individual AW. Due to the complexity of scheduling a training event of this nature, there is no hard expiration date between annual training cycles. However, MAFFS training generally occurs NLT 31 May of each year.

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4.2.2. MAFFS Training Prerequisites. Aircrew will be designated by the OG/CC for course entry. Table 4.1 reflects AFI 11-2C-130V1 requirements for MAFFS initial certification or upgrades.

Table 4.1 C-130H/J MAFFS Initial Certification / Upgrade Prerequisites.

From To C-130 Hours

Actual Fire

Drops

(Note 1,5)

Seasons

(Note 2)

Deployments

(Note ,3)

FPQ/FP

L/MP/IP

MAFFS

Copilot

750 C-130 or 1,200 total hours & 500 C-

N/A N/A N/A

MAFFS

Copilot

MAFFS

AC

1,800 C-130 or 2,500 total hours & 750 C-

130 AC

15 2 2

MAFFS

AC/ML

MAFFS

Instructor

1,500 (Note 4) 30 4 6

MAFFS

MN/FE

MAFFS

Instructor

1,200 (Note 4) 20 2 4

MN MAFFS

MN

750 N/A N/A N/A

MF MAFFS

FE

750 N/A N/A N/A

ML MAFFS

ML

750 N/A N/A N/A

NOTES:

1. Actual fire drops can include multiple incremental drops during one sortie. However, OG/CCs will ensure crewmembers have a variety of actual fire drop experience (flat land, high altitude, steep terrain, full load drops, incremental drops, multiple incidents, etc).

2. Cumlative total since initial MAFFS certification. A season is experience gained between annual continuation training cycles. For example, if a Wing conducted training 6-10 May each year, the season would be defined as 11 May through 5 May. The season may be more or less than a year in length dependent on when training dates fall throughout the year.

3. Cumlative total since initial MAFFS cerification. A deployment is experience gained through deploying, preferrably performing actual fire drops during, and re-deploying during any one season.

4. Must be an Instructor in respective crew position. Pilots and Loadmasters shall have 100 instructor hours. Navigators and Flight Engineers shall have 50 instructor hours.

5. Total number of actual fire drops in current crew position. For example, to upgrade to

MAFFS IP a total number of 30 drops as an MAFFS AC is required.

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4.2.3. MAFFS Initial Certification and Upgrade Training. Accomplish initial and upgrade ground and flight training under the supervision of a MAFFS instructor. All training shall be conducted IAW the approved MAFFS Syllabus during the annual USFS-coordinated training exercise in coordination with the designated MAFF. A flight evaluation is not required.

4.2.4. MAFFS Instructors. MAFFS instructor candidates should be selected from among the most qualified MAFFS crewmembers and experienced in all phases of MAFFS flying operations, including actual wildfire airdrops. Prior to MAFFS Instructor training, candidates shall complete MAFFS continuation training to certify for the season.

4.2.5. MAFFS Continuation Training This section outlines ground and flying continuation training requirements for MAFFS-certified crewmembers. MAFFS currency duration shall be based on the annual MAFFS training program and when the training exercise is offered by the

USFS. Accomplish ground training IAW Table 4.2 and flying training IAW Table 4.3. A certified MAFFS instructor shall supervise all ground continuation training. MAFFS continuation training shall be accomplished in coordination with USFS at their annually provided training event. The USFS shall provide a lead plane for annual MAFFS flight training and provide required ground training. If individuals are unable to attend training during the time specified for their Wing, they should attend training at an alternate MAFFS Wing location where training is being offered. If a crewmember does not attend a training session, they are considered non mission ready for MAFFS missions and can regain MAFFS mission ready status as directed by paragraphs 4.2.7.2 and 4.2.7.3.

4.2.6. MAFFS AW/CC will certify individual crewmember qualifications to the USFS upon successful completion of all required training items.

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Table 4.2. MAFFS Ground Continuation Training Events

Event Frequency Position

(H)

Position (J)

Operational MAFFS Wing Provided Training

MAFFS Annual Refresher Training A All All

Operating in the MAFFS Environment A P,N,FE P

FM Radio Operations/Flight Following Procedures A N P

MAFFS Loading, Retardant & Air Servicing

Procedures

A L All

USFS Provided Training

Communication & Dispatch Procedures A P, N P

Tanker Base Operations A All All

Fire Tactics & Behavior A P,N,FE P

Chemicals A All All

A-Annual *. The NMLO or their delegated representative may adjust this annual training requirement for recertification under certain conditions (ie:

some portion of wing personnel unavailable for annual scheduled training due to foreign deployment) in coordination with the Wing Commander.

Currency will expire at the end of the calendar month, one year after training.

Table 4.3 MAFFS Mission Continuation Flying Requirements

Code Event All Crew Positions Notes

MAFFS Mission Events

MD51 MAFFS Training Drop Event 9 1

MD52 MAFFS Training Drop (Wet) 3

MD53 MAFFS Training Heavy Weight Go Around 1 2

MD54 MAFFS Training Emergency Escape 1 2

NOTES:

Requirements may be accomplished during one sortie unless the MAFFS IP determines additional continuation training is required.

To credit flying continuation training requirements, MAFFS training drops sll be under the supervision of a USFS or other agency provided lead plane.

1. MD51 events can be credited by accomplishing MAFFS wet or dry drops

2. Fully loaded system required. Will simulate one MAFFS heavy weight go around and one

MAFFS Emergency Escape Procedure. Actual emergency dumping of load is not required.

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4.2.7. Proficiency. Proficiency on actual fires is desirable to ensure safe operations and for crewmembers to acquire sufficient experience to upgrade to…