Three massive Oshkosh Striker crash trucks and a new ladder rig are heading to the tarmac at Denver International Airport, following a $12.2 million approval by the City Council this week.
The order, adopted on February 22, 2026, is a direct response to the Denver Fire Department's 2021-2025 Strategic Plan, which prioritizes modernizing equipment to handle the airport's growing passenger volume and cargo traffic.
The purchase covers five specific vehicles designed for the unique demands of the airfield: one 2028 Ford F550 Patrol Unit, one 2030 Pierce Velocity Ladder Truck, and three 2027 Oshkosh Striker Vehicles. The Striker units are the heavy hitters of the fleet, capable of carrying thousands of gallons of foam and water to suppress jet fuel fires within critical response times mandated by federal safety standards.
While the Denver Fire Department generally adheres to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1901 best practices for vehicle replacement, this specific acquisition targets the airport's distinct operational needs. The new fleet will replace aging units currently stationed at the airport fire station, ensuring that emergency crews have the most reliable technology available when seconds count on the runways.
Residents and travelers can expect these new vehicles to enter service over the next few years as they are manufactured and delivered. The procurement was finalized without a public hearing requirement, as it falls under the City Council's adopted budget authority. For those wishing to review the specific legislative details of the purchase order, the full record is available on the Denver City Council portal.