Bridger Aerospace Group (BAER) Vertical Economy Investor Conference: The Race to Dominate the Skies summary

Strategic direction and market positioning

• Focused on aerial firefighting with a mission to save lives, property, and the environment, leveraging a high-performing team and advanced aircraft fleet.

• Expanded fleet to eight Super Scoopers, the largest privately owned fleet globally, and integrated advanced surveillance technology.

• Acquired a software company in 2023 and a defense-based aerospace engineering firm in 2024 to enhance integrated services and technology capabilities.

• Completed a major debt refinance in 2025, enabling further fleet expansion and capital flexibility through sale-leaseback and deferred draw facility.

• Built a seasoned leadership team with expertise in aviation, finance, and compliance to drive growth and scalability.

Industry trends and demand drivers

• Increasing wildfire frequency and severity, driven by climate change and urban expansion into fire-prone areas, is fueling demand for year-round aerial firefighting.

• Structural demand tailwinds and agency changes have led to more guaranteed, long-term contracts and higher aircraft utilization.

• Federal and state funding for wildfire management is rising, with a shift from call-when-needed to exclusive-use contracts.

• The need for rapid response and pre-positioned aircraft is now recognized as essential, even outside traditional fire seasons.

• Industry-wide, there is insufficient aircraft supply to meet growing demand, creating opportunities for further expansion.

Technology integration and competitive advantages

• IGNIS software platform enhances aircraft utilization, customer stickiness, and operational efficiency, setting a new industry standard.

• Real-time intelligence and predictive modeling tools support ground and aerial firefighting coordination, improving safety and effectiveness.

• Proprietary technology and sensor-enabled aircraft provide a competitive moat and enable management of the entire wildfire lifecycle.

• High renewal rates and a resilient contract profile support stable revenue and margin growth.

• Economies of scale and technology adoption are driving improved financial performance and analyst buy ratings.