Aerial Firefighting External Pod  

The Aerial Firefighting External Pod (AFEP) is a modular firefighting solution designed to be mounted on military fighter jets and utility aircraft, enabling rapid-response aerial firefighting capabilities. Its aerodynamic, lightweight construction minimizes the impact on the host aircraft's performance while maximizing operational efficiency.   USTPO 63/761,665

The AFEP is an equipment system that provides a portable solution for dispensing fire-retardant chemicals or water for airborne fire suppression. Designed for seamless integration with military aircraft, it requires no permanent modifications and can be mounted on aircraft equipped with military-standard hardpoints. This enables the effective deployment of aerial firefighting capabilities in a conventional and efficient manner.

The AFEP system features large-capacity external liquid-storage pods that can be distributed across weapon hardpoints and external fuel-tank mounting positions. The system incorporates controllable dump doors that open and close to release the fire-retardant agent or water during firefighting operations.