The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) commissioned a new firefighting and rescue vessel into service in a ceremony on Wednesday, June 25.
The 38-metre Blue Dolphin is fitted with an integrated command post for command and control functions during major incidents, an advanced navigational system for precise vessel handling, and a launch and recovery system for a rigid inflatable boat.
The vessel also features a solar-powered charging system, biofuel-compatible engines, a customised firefighting monitor, and a sonar to aid in underwater search operations.
Blue Dolphin was jointly developed by the SCDF, Singapore's Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX), the Defence Science and Technology Agency, and naval architecture firm BMT.
HTX said the vessel can quickly detect chemical and biological agents at lower concentrations using advanced chemical, biological and radiological detection systems.
Compared to SCDF's earlier rescue vessel Red Dolphin, Blue Dolphin is 10 per cent longer, thus allowing more storage space for firefighting, rescue and medical equipment.
HTX said that, despite the larger platform, the newer vessel’s improved hull design and advanced control system allow it to match Red Dolphin's top speed of 30 knots.