BMT and Penguin Shipyard International have announced the successful completion and delivery of the Blue Dolphin MFV-R, a next-generation marine fire and rescue vessel developed in close partnership with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).
Purpose-built to strengthen SCDF’s emergency response capabilities at sea, the Blue Dolphin is the first of two 38-metre Multi-role Fire Vessels – Rescue (MFV-R) designed to address evolving operational requirements in one of the world’s busiest maritime regions.
This new class of fire and rescue vessel builds on the proven performance of earlier platforms delivered by BMT and Penguin, including the Red Dolphin and Red Manta, both of which entered service with SCDF in 2019.
The 38-metre Blue Dolphin MFV-R features a BMT-optimised aluminium monohull design with superior seakeeping and manoeuvrability. The hull extension accommodates a higher payload, enabling the vessel to carry more personnel, equipment, and firefighting systems. It is powered by high-performance propulsion systems that allow it to reach speeds exceeding 30 knots, ensuring rapid response in emergencies.
The enhanced external firefighting system, includes three fire monitors and three high-capacity pumps delivering a combined flow rate of 3,600m³ per hour, along with 12,000 litres of foam capacity. This is further supported by a self-protection water curtain, giving the vessel a fully redundant and highly capable firefighting configuration that exceeds standard FiFi Class 1 requirements.
The vessel also houses a high-speed RHIB equipped with a proprietary dedicated launch and recovery ramp, enabling quick deployment for nearshore search-and-rescue operations.
“The award of the Blue Dolphin project was a strong vote of confidence in BMT’s proven design capabilities, following the success of the Red Dolphin,” said Martin Bissuel, Head of Sales, BMT. “It’s a testament to the trust built through collaboration and our ongoing commitment to delivering innovative, mission-ready vessels. Working closely with SCDF and Penguin, we’ve designed a platform that enhances operational performance, integrates advanced technology, and prepares responders for the increasingly complex maritime challenges ahead.”
“Our joint development of the Blue Dolphin is a testament to what can be achieved through close collaboration between operator, designer and builder,” said James Tham, Managing Director of Penguin International Limited, the Singapore-listed parent company of Penguin Shipyard International”
As Singapore’s port infrastructure expands and maritime traffic grows more complex, the Blue Dolphin MFV-R will be a cornerstone in SCDF’s ability to safeguard national waters against fires, hazardous material incidents, and mass casualty events. The second vessel of the MFV-R class is currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2027.
