Thoughts on the Beriev Be 200?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beriev_Be-200
I see it like this:
Pros: 12000 Litre capacity. Able to scoop water at near takeoff speed rather than always land/refill, but can still land/refill to use retardant. Water scooping, 12000 Litre capacity and 300kn cruising speed makes for ridiculously good turn around time for coastal fires or any fires where longish rivers are available. High non wing mounted turbofans to avoid spray and increase pure wing surface area.
Cons: If using runway it must be 1800m long or more. If using water the body of water must be 2300m or more and 2.5m deep. I doubt the Russian parts/supply chain locally is as good as Boeing parts/supply chain. If local pilots are going to be used, training required. In any case regarding spares/pilots, likely quite expensive.
