Bridger Aerospace Awarded Exclusive-Use Contract by State of Montana for Innovative Wildfire Detection Aircraft

Rhea-AI Summary

Bridger Aerospace (NASDAQ: BAER) has won an exclusive-use contract from the State of Montana for wildfire detection and mapping services using a modified Daher Kodiak 100 aircraft. The contract includes a one-year initial term with two optional extension years, guaranteeing a minimum of 120 days of availability for a minimum annual value of $648,000, with potential for additional revenue from extra days and flight hours.

The contract represents the first joint effort between Bridger and FMS Aerospace since their 2024 acquisition, utilizing their combined in-house design, engineering, and Part 145 modification capabilities. The specially modified aircraft will be equipped with advanced sensor systems and an operator workstation to provide real-time infrared imagery, wildfire hotspot identification, and precise fire perimeter mapping to support firefighting crews throughout Montana.

Positive

• Secured new exclusive-use contract with minimum annual value of $648,000
• Nearly all air attack and sensor-equipped fleet committed/operational for 2025 fire season
• First successful joint contract leveraging FMS Aerospace acquisition synergies
• Potential for additional revenue beyond minimum contract value

Negative

• Contract renewal dependent on state funding availability
• initial contract duration of one year

BELGRADE, Mont., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. (“Bridger” or “Bridger Aerospace”) (NASDAQ: BAER, BAERW), announced today that, after participating in a competitive bidding process, it has been notified by the State of Montana as the successful bidder for an exclusive-use contract to provide wildfire detection and mapping using a specially modified Daher Kodiak 100 aircraft. The exclusive-use agreement includes an initial one-year term, with two optional extension years pending continued state funding. The contract provides for a minimum of 120 days of availability for a minimum annual value of $648,000 with additional days and flight hours incremental to the minimum annual value.

“With this award, nearly all of Bridger’s air attack and sensor-equipped fleet is either committed or currently operational for the 2025 fire season,” stated Sam Davis, Chief Executive Officer at Bridger Aerospace. “This opportunity, which expands our portfolio of exclusive-use contracts, is particularly significant as it enables us to support critical firefighting operations in our home state. With our specialized in-house aircraft modification capabilities, we’re uniquely positioned to rapidly deliver advanced aerial intelligence and mapping solutions, directly supporting the safety and effectiveness of wildfire response teams throughout Montana.”

This modification integrates an advanced sensor system and operator workstation into the Kodiak and is being executed by the combined Bridger and FMS Aerospace team. This marks the first-ever joint effort contract award for their in-house design, engineering, and Part 145 modification capabilities since the acquisition of FMS in 2024. It will enable rapid identification of wildfire hotspots across the state, precise fire perimeter mapping, and delivery of near-real-time infrared imagery directly to firefighting crews.

About Bridger Aerospace

Based in Belgrade, Montana, Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest aerial firefighting companies. Bridger provides aerial firefighting and wildfire management services to federal and state government agencies, including the United States Forest Service, across the nation, as well as internationally. More information about Bridger Aerospace is available at https://www.bridgeraerospace.com.

Investor Contacts

Alison Ziegler
Darrow Associates
201-220-2678
aziegler@darrowir.com

FAQ

What is the value of Bridger Aerospace's (BAER) new Montana firefighting contract?

The contract guarantees a minimum annual value of $648,000 for 120 days of availability, with potential additional revenue from extra days and flight hours.

How long is Bridger Aerospace's (BAER) new Montana wildfire detection contract?

The contract includes a one-year initial term with two optional extension years, subject to continued state funding.

What type of aircraft will BAER use for the Montana wildfire detection contract?

Bridger Aerospace will use a specially modified Daher Kodiak 100 aircraft equipped with advanced sensor systems and an operator workstation.

What capabilities will BAER's modified aircraft provide for Montana firefighting operations?

The aircraft will provide rapid wildfire hotspot identification, precise fire perimeter mapping, and near-real-time infrared imagery delivery to firefighting crews.