WMD design fire-fighting vessel

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UK naval architect firm Walker Marine Design (WMD) has designed a 25m long specialist fire-fighting (FiFi) vessel.

FiFi vessel

MetalCraft Marine's FiFi vessel will be equipped with two MTU engines. Image: WMD

WMD won a contract with Canada’s MetalCraft Marine Inc. (MCM) for the FiFi vessel, which has a design based on a wind farm service vessel (WFSV), to provide the solution to speed and stability, together with enhanced access via extended stern platforms, as well as a docking station and crane for the daughter craft.

James Walker, principal naval architect at WMD, commented: “This is a fantastic achievement for WMD, particularly as we have been selected from a global list of established players. This vessel wholly reflects our business’ ethos of delivering innovative naval architecture to a worldwide audience.”

The FiFi vessel will be equipped with two MTU engines delivering speeds of up to 25 knots. She features a twin-storied wheelhouse, four-berth cabin, medical room and equipment storage space. She also uniquely boasts six monitors, which deliver 11,000 gallons per minute.

The build will commence imminently, with delivery to Kuwait anticipated in 2021.

WMD recently unveiled its first in class 14m high-speed FiFi pilot vessel, which was built with Aluminium Marine Consultants as part of a tri-party agreement together with UK leading emergency services vehicle supplier, Angloco, for clients in South America.

By Rebecca Jeffrey