Widebody Transport
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 181; Flight Crew Total 12000; Flight Crew Type 4000
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Inflight Shutdown; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport
Aircraft
Approximately 5 minutes after entering airspace we had an intermittent level 1 FIRE DET FAIL 1 illuminate. After referencing the QRH we saw the number 1 fuel switch light illuminate momentarily. 5 to 10 seconds later the number 1 Fire warning alert sounded with corresponding lights in the fuel switch; fire handle and glare shield. We secured number 1 engine In Accordance With (IAW) QRH procedures and requested a turn to departure field with a descent to FL 180. After switching frequencies to control we coordinated a fuel dump of approximately 100;000 lbs. of fuel with possible holding. We secured the fuel jettison after 1/2 turn in holding and obtained vectors to the ILS. Approach and landing during night VMC were uneventful. We had the aircraft inspected by Fire [and] Rescue and maintenance after landing and before continuing to park.  International Relief Officer (IRO) was actively involved in all aspects of the event and aided situational awareness considerably. After landing all crew members commented that the event was 'Just like a sim ride'; kudos to the training center for providing valuable knowledge and realistic training. This aircraft had a history of number 1 Engine fire detection issues. I realize that it is not always possible to fix every issue before a flight and the resolution to this problem is still unknown. This issue however cost the company a significant amount of money in dumped fuel; man hours and lost revenue. We have 160;000 lbs of our customer's goods on the ground instead of on the truck for delivery. I am concerned that repeat aircraft discrepancies are signed off as item cleared; or could not duplicate without thorough troubleshooting.
[Report narrative contained no additional information.]
Wide body aircraft flight crew experienced a malfunction in the Number 1 Engine Fire Warning System. The engine was secured and the flight returned to the departure airport.