This launch marks a key upgrade in Singapore’s maritime emergency response, as the Blue Dolphin becomes the SCDF’s primary vessel for major sea-based operations, ranging from fires and rescues to chemical, biological, and radiological emergencies. The vessel will be based at the West Coast Marine Fire Station.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) has added a new rescue boat called the Blue Dolphin to its fleet. It is a second-generation vessel built to handle serious emergencies at sea in Singapore.
This launch marks a key upgrade in Singapore’s maritime emergency response, as the Blue Dolphin becomes the SCDF’s primary vessel for major sea-based operations, ranging from fires and rescues to chemical, biological, and radiological emergencies. The vessel will be based at the West Coast Marine Fire Station.
Slightly larger than its predecessor, the Red Dolphin (launched in 2019), the Blue Dolphin is about 3 metres longer and boasts a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h). It's equipped with three powerful fire monitors capable of discharging up to 4,800 cubic metres of water per hour, nearly equivalent to two Olympic swimming pools.
The vessel can carry four navigational crew members and 10 marine specialists, ensuring it’s always ready to respond effectively to high-stakes emergencies.
Developed in collaboration with Penguin Shipyard International, Home Team Science and Technology Agency, and Defence Science and Technology Agency, the Blue Dolphin is packed with cutting-edge technology.
One of the standout features is the integrated command post, which gathers real-time data from onboard cameras, sensors, and logs to support faster and more accurate decision-making.
The vessel also includes an advanced chemical, biological, and radiological (CBR) detection system. Using infrared sensors, it can identify a wide range of hazardous substances, including chemical warfare agents and industrial toxins from distances of up to 5km.
To improve operations in hazardous environments, the vessel supports virtual anchoring, which allows for precise positioning and reduces operator fatigue. It also features search-and-rescue enhancements, such as a rigid hull inflatable boat with its own fire fighting system, ideal for navigating shallow coastal waters.
With increased interior space, the Blue Dolphin provides better-equipped PPE and rescue rooms, improving workflow during critical missions. The additional space also allows for heli-winch capabilities, supporting aerial evacuations.
In keeping with global efforts toward greener operations, the Blue Dolphin includes an integrated solar charging system and biofuel-compatible engines, making it a more environmentally responsible choice for maritime rescue missions.
At the official launch, held at the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club, Minister Edwin Tong emphasized the importance of enhancing maritime safety. With the cruise industry growing and Singapore’s Tuas Mega Port becoming one of the world’s largest by 2040, the waters around Singapore are expected to get significantly busier.
“Larger vessels and more passengers mean increased responsibilities for emergency services,” he said. He also highlighted the maritime industry's shift toward alternative fuels like LNG, ammonia, and methanol, which introduce new types of operational risk.
Looking to the future, SCDF plans to grow the fleet to ten vessels by 2030, with the Blue Dolphin being the first of four new vessels currently in development. A new Marine Division HQ at Brani is also expected to be operational by early 2026, and a Marine Fire Post will be built at Punggol’s Northshore Crescent by 2028.
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