For aviation talk visit http://freeaviation.freeforums.orgThe Bombardier (formerly Canadair) CL-415 (Superscooper) is a Canadian amphibious aircraft purpose-built as a water bomber. It is the only aircraft designed and built specifically for fire fighting and is based on the company's CL-215.In 1987, following market trends towards more efficient, powerful and reliable turboprop powerplants, Canadair undertook the task of retrofitting a number of CL-215 airframes (17) with the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW123AF engines, providing a 15% power increase over the original piston engines. The retrofitted aircraft were designated CL-215T and also featured many aerodynamic and systems improvements including powered flight controls, cockpit air conditioning, as well as upgraded electrical and avionics systems.Aside from the powerplants, the most notable external features of the CL-215T retrofit were the aerodynamic additions to the wings and empennage. Based on the success of the CL-215, the CL-415 was subsequently a "new-build" production series beginning in 1993. The 415 has an updated cockpit, aerodynamics enhancements and changes to the bomb system as well, creating a modern firefighting amphibious flying boat to detect and suppress forest fires.Compared to the CL-215, the CL-415 has increased operating weight and speed yielding improved productivity and performance. The 415 can scoop up to 6,140 litres (1350 Imperial gal or 1,620 US gal) of water from a nearby water source, mix it with a chemical foam if desired, and drop it on a fire without having to return to base to refill its tanks. The 415 was specifically developed to provide the capability to deliver massive quantities of suppressant in quick response to fires. The aircraft is built for reliability and longevity, with use of corrosion-resistant materials. Water loads are scooped through 2 probes that measure 4 x 6 inches. The new CL-415GR has higher operating weights while the Bombardier 415 multi-role is available for use in a paramilitary search and rescue role and utility transport.The "415" first flew in December of 1993 with the first deliveries in November 1994. Orders from many countries soon followed. Derived from its predecessor's nickname, it acquired the name, "Super Scooper" in light of its greatly enhanced performance as a water bomber and fire suppressant weapon. In recognition of its abilities in the dangerous but necessary tasks of fire fighting, the aircraft was awarded the prestigious Batefuegos de oro. The award citation in part read "This is the most efficient tool for the aerial combat of forest fires, key to the organization of firefighting in a large number of countries. The continuous improvements to meet the needs of forest firefighting have made these aircraft the aerial means most in demand over more than 30 years."

Video providers : , and this video is stored with all copyright by