What is a primary function of an air tanker in firefighting activities?

The primary function of an air tanker in firefighting activities is to drop water or fire retardant on active wildfires. Air tankers are specialized aircraft designed to carry large quantities of liquid, allowing them to quickly deliver fire suppression materials to areas that may be difficult for ground crews to access or reach in a timely manner. By applying water or retardant directly onto the fire or the flames' perimeter, air tankers help to slow the fire's spread, create firebreaks, and provide critical support to ground operations aiming to extinguish the flames.

In the context of firefighting, the use of air tankers is crucial for controlling wildfires, especially during initial attack phases when rapid response can significantly influence the outcome of the fire incident. The effectiveness of air tankers in delivering necessary fire suppression materials makes this functionality essential for successful firefighting efforts.