Zac Quinn 
The threat of wildfires is on the rise, though it’s safe to say all kinds of natural disasters are becoming a more significant threat as of late. Luckily, Ford has been working to donate vehicles to assist with aid in the event of a natural disaster, and its recent addition is a Bronco Badlands donated to the National Park Service for use in Bandelier National Monument, where it will operate as a firefighting command vehicle. And it could be a hint at future “Work” Ford Bronco variants to come.
Ford Bronco Wildland Fire Fighting Command Truck: Details
The Bronco wildland firefighting command rig comes equipped with the Sasquatch off-road package and will follow the Bronco + Filson Wildland Fire Rig Concept. This Bronco is the first of two being developed by Darley for donation to the National Park Services and a wildland firefighting agency that will be the subject of a future announcement. Darley is a global manufacturer and distributor of defense, fire, and rescue vehicles. The vehicle features an array of equipment to help the park monitor and manage active fires, assist with identifying fires, deliver real-time updates on fire location and severity, and provide other firefighting support.
To achieve these goals, the Ford Bronco is equipped with a state-of-the-art government communication system, including satellite and antenna connections, to provide reliability and redundancy in the most remote environments. The integrated technology will allow firefighters to establish a real-time backcountry command and control position with the crews during emergency operations.
The vehicle also includes a drone with live feed screens on the vehicle, a tablet computer, and special software, providing the first response team with improved aerial reconnaissance, detection capabilities, and enhanced situational awareness. These high-tech solutions allow for safer operations when responding to wildland fires as well as when responding to other domestic disaster situations.
True to Ford’s commitment to building a more sustainable and inclusive future on The Road to Better, Bronco Wild Fund reflects a deep respect for public lands and an unbridled commitment to helping those lands continue to be a world of wonder for all. Bronco Wild Fund has donated over $3.7 million to diverse causes, including organizations like America’s State Parks, National Forest Foundation, Outward Bound, and Sons of Smokey.
