VIKING Life-Saving Equipment has unveiled HydroPen Reefer, a new version of its popular “drill and spray” container firefighting system, developed in response to growing fire risks from combustible cargoes such as lithium batteries being shipped in refrigerated containers.
Unlike conventional firefighting methods that target containers externally, the HydroPen system attaches to a ship’s hose, using water pressure to drill through the container wall and extinguish fires directly at the source.
The launch follows heightened industry concern over fire incidents and mis-declared cargoes. According to a World Shipping Council (WSC) submission to the IMO, over 11% of containers inspected in 2024 had reporting deficiencies. The WSC’s new AI-powered Cargo Safety Program aims to improve detection of undeclared dangerous goods.
Citing Allianz’s Safety and Shipping Review 2025, VIKING notes that “fires and mis-declared cargo remain top large vessel concerns,” with the insurer emphasizing the urgent need to enhance fire detection and suppression capabilities.
The HydroPen Reefer was designed in consultation with leading container operators already using HydroPen across their fleets. The new model features an extended drill and reinforced nozzle to penetrate reefer insulation up to 120mm thick, while maintaining compatibility with standard dry containers.
“Many of the larger container operators have adopted HydroPen fleetwide,” said Benny Carlsen, Senior Vice President of Sales at VIKING. “HydroPen Reefer provides the extra power needed to handle insulated reefer walls while retaining the flexibility to tackle fires in any type of container.”
Lightweight at under 10 kg and operable by a single crew member, HydroPen Reefer allows safe, remote operation for fires in both reefer and dry units.
“Adaptability to various scenarios ensures that fires can be tackled effectively and without delay,” added Bella Hajnal, Product Manager at VIKING. “This new version gives crews the confidence to act decisively when it matters most.”
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