First Non-military Order for Survitec DSB 470 FR
Babcock International has contracted Survitec to supply its DSB 470 FR boats to satisfy a London Fire Brigade (LFB) requirement for new rescue boats.
The LFB is one of the largest firefighting and rescue organisations in the world and is viewed as the point of reference for fire brigades in the UK. Babcock provides engineering services to a range of government bodies and private sector customers, including managing the LFB’s fleet assets. The contract builds on a relationship between Survitec and the LFB that dates from 2002, since when a series of water rescue products, such as lifejackets and throwing lines, have been regularly supplied.
This is the first non-military sale of this particular model, which was been originally designed to serve the military and special forces market. Since adapted to a broader range of customer requirements, modifications include a low-pressure rapid inflation system plus an aft navigation and light frame, which offers an effective rapid response solution in what can be demanding environments. Due to its inflatable floor, the DSB 470 FR is lightweight and stowage-savvy for transportation, without compromising its integral in-water performance, making this a versatile solution for use in water and flood rescue operations.
“After a stringent tender process we look forward to continuing our relationship with Survitec. The tender was won in a highly competitive market place, where the DSB 470 FR thrived in key areas valuable to water and flood rescue – particularly in handling and flood and stability tests: attributes which are of importance when someone’s safety is paramount,” commented Fleet Engineer Babcock (LFB) Fleet Management, Michael Bonney.
“At Survitec we want to ensure our customers get quality for a reasonable price. This product will add a new dynamic to their operations, keeping London’s community safe when on or under the water. We are obsessive about safety; and are proud to count discerning customers like Babcock International and the LFB as one of our key partners,” added Survitec’s Marine Sales Director, Mark Hart.