The new vehicles are the latest phase of the Service's fleet replacement programme and will replace some of its oldest appliances, helping to ensure firefighters have access to modern vehicles equipped with the latest operational and safety features.
The investment follows the successful introduction of eight new engines in 2024 and forms part of the Service's long-term fleet replacement strategy.
Featuring a number of operational and safety enhancements, the new additions boast touchscreen pump controls, LED scene lighting, hot hand wash units, tyre pressure monitoring, and blind spot collision alerts. Additional improvements include automated ladder head gantries and bronze water pumps designed to reduce corrosion and maintenance requirements.
Built by ‘Emergency One’ on Volvo FL816 chassis, the 16-tonne Type B pumping appliances have been designed to respond to a wide range of incidents and are the same specification as appliances already operating within the Service.
Councillor Tristan Gale, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Devolution and the Fire Service, said:
"Keeping the people of Suffolk safe is a fundamental responsibility of ours, and these new fire engines represent a significant investment in the future of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service.
"This replacement programme demonstrates the value of long-term planning and our commitment to ensuring firefighters have the modern, reliable equipment they need to protect communities safely and effectively.
"It was a pleasure to see the new appliances ahead of their introduction into frontline service, and we would like to thank everyone involved in bringing the project to this stage.
“Their expertise and dedication have helped turn years of planning into a reality, ensuring our crews can continue to deliver the highest standards of emergency response across Suffolk."
Henry Griffin, Suffolk Fire and Rescue’s Deputy Chief Fire Officer, said:
“This is an important milestone for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service as we prepare to introduce 11 new fire appliances into frontline service across Suffolk.
"These vehicles represent a significant step forward in our fleet replacement programme and will support firefighters in responding to a wide range of incidents across the county. Designed around operational requirements, they incorporate a number of enhancements that will benefit crews on the incident ground.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to recognise the contribution of Matthew Parsons, our Asset and Commissioning Manager. Matthew has led this project since its earliest stages, working closely with operational colleagues, fleet teams and suppliers over the past few years to help bring these appliances into service.”
The appliances will now undergo final preparations before being allocated to fire stations as part of the planned vehicle cascade.
