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Rescue – future rescue unit for the Polish Navy
Author:Mariusz Dasiewicz
On December 27, 2024, a contract was signed at the Naval Academy in Gdynia for the construction of a modern rescue ship "Saveman" for the Polish Navy. The unit will be built in the PGZ War Shipyard, which has supported the Polish fleet in its key modernization programs for years.
In the article
Rescuer – a big step for the Polish fleet
Since almost every medium in our country has already published information about a modern rescue ship codenamed "The Rescuer", I feel that it is my duty, as a spokesman for the PGZ of the Naval Shipyard and the owner of the Shipyard Portal, to add something from each other – it is our duty, after all, Polish Navy In a few years, he will become the owner of this special unit. Lifeguard is a symbol of the modernity and development of the Polish fleet, as well as the largest unit of this class in its history – measuring 96 meters in length, 19 meters in width, will displace 6500 tons.
It will be a ship that will not only respond to the needs of the Polish Navy, but will also set new standards for rescue operations in and outside the Baltic. Thanks to the operational range of 6000 nautical miles, the state-of-the-art technologies and an ambitious construction schedule – from cutting the sheets which are planned for December 2025, by launching in 2027 until entering the service in 2029 – this project is worth a closer presentation from the perspective of people who are close to its implementation.
Future missions The lifeguard.
The multitasking of this unit is evidenced by the wide spectrum of missions that will be crucial for the Polish Navy. The new rescue ship was designed to carry out various tasks. First of all, it will provide support in rescue operations for submarine crews, including future units of the "Orka" program. Simultaneously Lifeguard will significantly increase the capabilities of the Polish Navy in the field of the protection of offshore installations and monitoring of seabeds – skills extremely important in the changing Baltic security environment.
The implementation of the Rescue Programme is a huge technological and organisational challenge for our shipyards. Already in the preparation stage we are engaging with the most modern solutions that will allow us to build this unit according to the highest standards. Key elements, such as systems supporting underwater activities on this unit, will provide significant support for future operations of the Polish Navy. The ship will be equipped, among others, with a high-resolution multi-band echoprobe system that will allow precise mapping of the seabed. This solution is crucial for monitoring critical infrastructure such as submarines or pipelines in the Baltic.
Mariusz Małecki, Head of Strategic Programme "Rescue"
Exceptional operational capabilities The lifeguard. This is not only a range or modern technology, but also advanced solutions that will make it irreplaceable support for the Polish Navy. In the context of the support of submarine crews, the ship will be equipped with a hyperbaric module, enabling rescue operations at high depths. Thanks to this Lifeguard will play a key role in rescue operations and in securing the NATO mission to the Baltic. However, the most important mission of the unit remains operational support for our naval Armed Forces, both during peace and in crisis situations.
Marcin Ryngwelski, President of the PGZ War Shipyard, also talks about the unique role of the team and ambitious plans for the future.
Construction of a lifeboat Lifeguard This is a unique undertaking for me, because for years I have had the pleasure of participating in the construction of warships and auxiliary units for the Polish Navy. The involvement of the PGZ negotiating team, PGZ SW and OBR CTM played a key role in preparing and signing the agreement – for which I am very grateful. Now, with the new team of the Rescue program, we are laying the foundations for this project. I believe that together we will create a unit that will become the pride of the Polish fleet.
Marcin Ryngwelski, President of the Polish Naval Shipyard
Support for the Polish fleet
Introduction of the vessel Lifeguard to the service marks a breakthrough for our Navy, which for decades has been basing its rescue capabilities on used units such as the ORP Sand and ORP Lech. The new unit will be a symbol of the changing face of the Polish fleet – readiness for the challenges of the 21st century and the ability to cooperate effectively within the North Atlantic Alliance.
Lifeguard not only will it support rescue efforts, but it will also become a floating operating centre capable of responding to various threats, including offshore installations failure or humanitarian crises at sea. It is a ship whose task will be to restore to the Navy the capabilities that have long been waiting for.
It is also worth emphasizing the presence of a medical module on board "Ratownika" which will allow immediate assistance in emergency situations. This system will be integrated with other emergency support devices, which will make The lifeguard. a comprehensive tool in the hands of the Polish Navy.
However, it should be borne in mind that the details of the systems and technologies used may be changed at the stage of construction and entry into service, as a result of the need to adapt to changing operational needs and the state security requirements. The introduction of a rescue ship to the service will not only strengthen the operational capabilities of the Polish Navy, but will also contribute to further development of the defence and economic potential of our country in the strategically important Baltic region.
In summary, Lifeguard it is more than a modern ship – it is a symbol of the reconstruction of the Polish fleet and evidence of the ability of the Polish shipbuilding industry to implement complex projects. For our shipyards, this is a special opportunity to develop technological competences that will open the door to further equally ambitious constructions in the future. The programme will also allow to improve organisational processes, create new jobs and strengthen the position of the PGZ of the Naval Shipyard as a key partner in the Polish Navy in the modernisation of the fleet.
