Hong Kong has made a significant acquisition in the realm of maritime safety with the purchase of what is claimed to be the world’s largest self-righting fireboat. This innovative vessel, designed to swiftly recover from complete capsizing in as little as six seconds, is poised to bolster the city’s firefighting and rescue capabilities, even in the most challenging conditions.

Reports indicate that the fireboat, boasting dimensions of 35 to 40 meters in length and weighing approximately 200 tonnes, has recently undergone successful testing at a Taiwanese shipyard. During these tests, which included deliberate capsizing maneuvers, the vessel demonstrated its remarkable ability to swiftly self-right, ensuring the safety of both crew members and potential rescue targets.

Sources familiar with the procurement process revealed that the Hong Kong Fire Services Department specifically requested this self-righting feature to safeguard firefighting and rescue operations, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Not only does this feature enhance the protection of firefighters on board, but it also enhances the vessel’s maneuverability in challenging maritime environments.

While the vessel is expected to arrive in Hong Kong as early as June pending the completion of testing, it will undergo further trials and crew training before being commissioned into active service. Notably, videos circulating on social media showcase the impressive capabilities of the fireboat, including its rapid self-righting action, garnering widespread attention and acclaim.

The procurement of this state-of-the-art fireboat represents a significant investment in enhancing the city’s emergency response capabilities. With its advanced features and unparalleled self-righting capability, the vessel stands poised to play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of Hong Kong’s maritime environment.