An Omani engineer has developed a mobile firefighting unit designed to improve rapid response to large-scale industrial fires, particularly in oil, petrochemical, and logistics facilities.
Engineer Awad Said Al Saadouni created the concept to address the need for faster and safer firefighting solutions in high-risk industrial environments where traditional equipment can face operational limitations. The system is built as an advanced firefighting trailer that can support civil defence teams and respond quickly to emergencies in industrial sites.
The unit integrates several technologies, including artificial intelligence, remote operation systems, and thermal monitoring tools to enhance firefighting efficiency and operator safety. Currently in the prototype stage, the system is being tested to evaluate its technical capabilities before potential commercial production.
One of the key features of the unit is its 10,000-gallon water tank, significantly larger than conventional fire engines that typically carry between 500 and 1,500 gallons. This larger capacity enables longer firefighting operations during major industrial incidents.
Because of the large water load, which can reach around 37 tonnes, the trailer has been designed with reinforced axles and an advanced hydraulic braking system to ensure stability and safe transport.
The unit also includes a high-capacity pump and a remotely controlled fire monitor that allows operators to direct water or specialized firefighting agents over long distances while remaining at a safe distance from the fire.
The system is primarily powered by solar energy, with solar panels charging onboard batteries that operate the pumps, monitoring systems, and remote controls. A backup generator can be added when additional power is required.
To improve fire detection and targeting, the trailer is equipped with a thermal imaging camera capable of identifying heat sources and fire hotspots even through dense smoke. A 360-degree surveillance camera system connected through internet protocols allows remote monitoring of the incident site.
The unit also features a weather monitoring system that collects data on wind direction, temperature, humidity, and solar radiation to help guide operational decisions during firefighting efforts.
According to Al Saadouni, the system uses environmentally friendly firefighting materials derived from natural resources, making it suitable for sensitive environments near residential areas or marine ecosystems.
If successful, the mobile unit could be deployed as a first-response solution for remote industrial sites, ports, airports, and logistics hubs where immediate intervention is critical before the arrival of civil defence teams. Preliminary discussions with investors are underway to explore potential production if the prototype performs well during field testing.
