Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), one of the Caribbean’s busiest aviation hubs, has strengthened its emergency response capabilities with the delivery of a new Oshkosh Striker 6×6 Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle. The addition expands the airport’s fully Oshkosh-equipped ARFF fleet and reinforces its commitment to operational safety and resilience.
Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc. and an Oshkosh Corporation business, confirmed the delivery as part of the airport’s ongoing modernisation of emergency response infrastructure.
“Operational safety and uninterrupted service are essential for an airport which serves as the primary gateway to the Dominican Republic’s tourism economy,” said Robert Colon, Associate Manager International Sales at Oshkosh Airport Products.
The airport, which handles millions of passengers annually, has built a reputation as a leading regional model for safety and preparedness. Its ARFF fleet now consists entirely of Oshkosh vehicles, complemented by several Pierce® mini pumpers.
“The new Striker 6×6 ensures our team is fully prepared to respond to emergencies across the airport and surrounding areas, even under the most challenging conditions,” said Adolfo Elías Rodríguez Barclay, Operations Manager for Punta Cana Airport. “We value our longstanding relationship with Oshkosh Airport Products, and their unwavering commitment to innovation, performance, and support.”
Designed for high performance in critical scenarios, the Striker 6×6 offers exceptional mobility and reliability through Oshkosh’s TAK-4 Independent Suspension. It carries 3,000 gallons of water and 420 gallons of foam, supported by roof and bumper turrets capable of discharging up to 1,250 gallons per minute with a reach of 230 feet. The vehicle includes 550 pounds of dry chemical capacity and a dual-agent hose reel for Class B fuel fires. Its integrated 10kW generator enables operation of essential systems without external power.
The Oshkosh Eco-EFP foam system allows environmentally responsible foam testing and delivery, supporting the airport’s sustainability goals while maintaining full firefighting readiness.
“The Striker 6×6 was chosen for its ability to meet the unique geographic and environmental challenges of Punta Cana, including hurricanes, flooding, and complex emergency response scenarios,” added Colon. “Its high power-to-weight ratio, tight turning radius, and robust onboard systems ensure rapid, reliable response across both airport grounds and hard-to-reach surrounding areas.”
Delivery and on-site commissioning took place in September 2025, with Oshkosh Airport Products’ International Field Service Representatives providing operator and maintenance training to the airport’s fire and rescue personnel.
For more information about Oshkosh Airport Products and the Striker ARFF range, visit www.oshkoshairport.com
