In areas of the western US where aircraft are used to fight wildland fires, which term is used for automotive water supply apparatus?

The term used for automotive water supply apparatus in areas of the western US where aircraft are employed to combat wildland fires is "Tender." A Tender is specifically designed to transport large quantities of water to the fire scene, often in remote areas where traditional water supply sources may be limited. These vehicles are equipped to support a firefighting operation by providing necessary water when it is not readily available, thus playing a critical role in wildfire suppression efforts.

In contrast, other terms like "Truck," "Pumper," and "Engine" may refer to various types of firefighting apparatus, but they typically describe vehicles primarily designed for specific roles within structural firefighting or delivering firefighting personnel and equipment rather than serving as mobile water supply units. Tenders specifically carry water storage capacities conducive to sustained operations in wildland environments, making them essential to the aerial firefighting strategy that relies on a consistent water supply.