A captivating video offers a firsthand look from the cockpit of a California Air National Guard aircraft engaged in combating the escalating Hughes Fire in Los Angeles County. The footage captures the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft executing a low-altitude drop of fire retardant amidst the intense flames on Wednesday in Castaic, a community located near Santa Clarita.

The California Air National Guard explained that Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems (MAFFS) are portable retardant delivery systems deployed by the U.S. Forest Service. These systems can be integrated into C-130 military aircraft without significant modifications, effectively transforming them into airtankers as needed. With impressive speed and coverage, these systems can release up to 3,000 gallons of retardant in under five seconds, blanketing an area a quarter-mile long and 100 feet wide. They also offer the flexibility of variable drops. Refilling these MAFFS-equipped aircraft takes less than 12 minutes after landing at a tanker base.

This cockpit view shows California Air National Guard pilots navigating through the Hughes Fire in Los Angeles County on Wednesday, January 22. (Credit: 146 Airlift Wing/California Air National Guard/TMX)

As of Thursday, the Hughes Fire has consumed over 10,000 acres and is only 14% contained, according to fire officials. Initially reported Wednesday morning, the fire's rapid spread is attributed to the strong winds that have hampered firefighting operations for several weeks.

Pilots approach the Hughes Fire in Castaic, California. (Credit: 146 Airlift Wing/California Air National Guard/TMX)

Over 4,000 fire personnel are currently battling the Hughes Fire. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone highlighted the weather's significant role in driving the fire's growth and spread, noting that a red flag warning remained in effect until Friday morning. While acknowledging the ongoing challenge, he expressed optimism about gaining control of the situation.

Tankers release fire retardant on the leading edge of the Hughes Fire in Castaic, California, on Wednesday, January 22. (Credit: David Crane/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images)

The fire has necessitated the evacuation of approximately 50,000 residents and led to temporary closures on Interstate 5 on Wednesday.