Bridger Aerospace Awarded $58M Contract with Texas A&M Forest Service to Build State Wildfire Aviation Surveillance Program

July 27, 2026

Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. (“Bridger,” “Bridger Aerospace” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BAER, BAERW), one of the nation’s leading aerial firefighting companies, today announced it has secured a $58 million contract with Texas A&M Forest Service to acquire, modify, and deliver three King Air 360 multi-mission aircraft as the foundation of their wildfire aviation program, delivered over the course of the next three years.

As the threat of wildfires continue to grow in severity and duration, the state of Texas has focused on preparation to protect its growing population. In 2024 alone, Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments responded to 5,187 wildfires that burned 1,300,579 acres across the state; including the Smokehouse Creek Fire, the largest in state history. Following the growth of wildfire risk, Texas legislature appropriated $257 million to Texas A&M Forest Service for the purchase, operation, and maintenance of wildfire suppression aircraft through HB500. Within this appropriations package, Bridger has been contracted for their King Air program.

These multi-mission aircraft (MMA) will be configured to support wildland fire detection and situational awareness, emergency operations, cargo transportation and medical evacuation (Medevac) missions. All aircraft modifications will be performed in Texas. Bridger Aerospace is working directly with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), Textron Aviation, to expedite the delivery schedule for all three aircraft and deliver the most advanced sensor enhanced platforms available today.

“As wildfires grow more frequent, more intense, and more destructive, states are recognizing the growing importance of preparedness and the scarcity of available aviation assets,” said Bridger CEO Sam Davis. “Texas A&M Forest Service is setting the standard by investing in a modern, state-based aerial firefighting program that puts resources in place before disasters strike. This contract marks an important milestone for Bridger as we expand our partnerships with states that are taking a proactive approach to wildfire response. By completing these aircraft modifications in Texas, we're strengthening our operational footprint, supporting local jobs and aviation infrastructure, and building the capacity needed to better protect lives, property, and the environment across the country.”

The contract reflects a growing recognition among state governments that effective wildfire response requires expanded access to reliable aerial firefighting assets.

Source : Bridger Aerospace