The Blue Dolphin is bigger and more technologically advanced than its predecessor
The Blue Dolphin was sprayed with water at its launching ceremony for good luck. (Photo: HTX)
Bigger and more technologically advanced, the Blue Dolphin, a 2nd Generation Marine Rescue Vessel (MRV2G) jointly developed by HTX, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), DSTA, and Penguin International Limited, was launched at Penguin shipyard in Tuas on 30 September 2024.
The event was officiated by COMR Eric Yap, Commissioner SCDF, AC Ryan Ong, Commander SCDF Marine Division, and Jeffrey Hing, Chairman Penguin International Limited.
SCDF Commissioner COMR Eric Yap (right) receiving from Chairman Penguin International Limited Mr Jeffrey Hing (left) a commemorative painting of the Blue Dolphin painted by a person with disabilities.
Side views of the Blue Dolphin. (Photos: HTX)
The launch of the new vessel marks a new milestone in the SCDF’s marine firefighting and rescue capabilities as it has markedly improved capabilities compared to the first generation of vessels.
The Blue Dolphin comes with a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB), which can be launched faster than the 1st Generation MRV’s RHIB, and a customised fire monitor which would aid firefighting operations in shallow waters. The vessel is also equipped with a sonar for underwater search-and-rescue operations and can quickly detect chemical and biological agents at lower concentrations using its advanced Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) detection systems.
Compared to the 1st Generation MRV (MRV1G) Red Dolphin, the Blue Dolphin is 10% longer, thus allowing more storage space for firefighting, rescue and medical equipment. Despite the larger platform, the vessel’s improved hull design and advanced control system for vessel propulsion allow it to match the MRV1G’s top speed of 30 knots.
The Blue Dolphin has obtained the necessary approvals from the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Bureau Veritas, one of the top ship classification societies. These approvals confirm that its design and construction have met the required safety, stability, and structural standards. The propulsion and power generation systems onboard the vessel also reduce carbon emissions.
“Witnessing the launch of the Blue Dolphin after months of planning and development is truly a rewarding and satisfying experience. The various milestones, from the plate cutting to the keel laying and now, the launching ceremony, have been remarkable and unforgettable. I am fully confident in the team’s ability to complete the final phase and deliver the project successfully,” said LTC Noor Azam Bin Kasiri, Senior Assistant Director (Ops Readiness), HQ SCDF.
Tan Teck Chuan, Director, Platform Systems, HTX, shared, “This launch ceremony is a key project milestone and is a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication. I wish the team every success in the completion of the new MRV2G, which will serve as a force multiplier for the SCDF Marine Division’s firefighting and rescue capabilities in Singapore waters.”
The Blue Dolphin will next undergo system commissioning and sea acceptance trials before being commissioned and delivered to the SCDF in June 2025.
Jubilent Xponents from HTX's Central Procurement Office, Civil Defence Programme Management Centre (CDPMC), Policing Programme Management Centre (PPMC), and Platform Systems Sustainment Centre (SC) who supported the Blue Dolphin project share a celebratory photo with Deputy Chief Executive (Operations) Chen Yeang Tat (front, 4th from left), Deputy Chief Executive (Development) Ng Yeow Boon (front, 5th from left), Director CDPMC Ling Kok Yong (front, 4th from right), Director PPMC Allan Loi (front, 2nd from right), Director Platform Systems SC Tan Teck Chuan (front, right), and Director Marine Systems Centre of Expertise Chung Kam Sam (not in photo). (Photo: HTX)