Abstract: This invention relates to an aerial burning and fire control unit which is to be carried by a helicopter, but is separate and independent of the helicopter so that the helicopter is in no way encumbered by the unit. When carried by the helicopter, the unit is received within the landing gear of the helicopter so that the helicopter may land while carrying the unit. On the other hand, the unit may be immediately jettisoned, when necessary by releasing the cargo hook. The unit has the dual function both as an aerial torch for controlled burning and as a water dump, the tank assembly of the unit being suitable for both supplying fuel to the burners and carrying water for dump purposes.