Tug Malta Names Damen RSD Tug 2513 as Med Aldebaran
Malta, December 4, 2024tug malta celebrated the naming of its newest vessel, a Damen RSD Tug 2513, during a special ceremony in Malta. Attended by Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela, the event marked the official christening of the tug, now named Med Aldebaran. The vessel, equipped with over 80 tonnes of bollard pull, is set to strengthen Tug Malta’s operations at the Port of Marsaxlokk.
A Compact Tug with Advanced Capabilities
The Damen RSD Tug 2513 is a versatile vessel that combines the features of ASD and tractor tugs. It delivers an "always bow first" towage approach, making it highly effective for diverse operational needs. Damen customizes this proven tug model to meet specific client requirements.Commitment to Sustainability
Med Aldebaran is outfitted with the Damen Marine NOX Reduction System, featuring a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system that ensures compliance with IMO Tier III regulations. This technology significantly reduces NOX and noise emissions, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable maritime industry.To enhance efficiency, the tug is equipped with Damen Triton, an IoT solution that gathers and analyzes data from sensors around the vessel. This system helps the crew optimize operations. Additionally, Med Aldebaran boasts FiFi1 firefighting capabilities, further expanding its utility.Journey and Integration into the Fleet
The contract for Med Aldebaran was signed in March 2024, with construction completed at Damen Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam. The vessel journeyed to Malta on its own keel, navigating via the Cape of Good Hope.Med Aldebaran joins a growing fleet of Damen tugs operated by Tug Malta, including another RSD Tug 2513 delivered in 2021. Since then, Tug Malta has become part of MSC’s MedTug Group, which operates over 160 tugs across more than 20 major international ports.A Symbol of Innovation and Partnership
During the ceremony, Antonio Marte of Damen expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Tug Malta and MedTug. “Med Aldebaran represents innovation, sustainability, and partnership. It is a vessel that continues the legacy of trust between our companies and reflects a shared vision for excellence in maritime operations,” he said.Giacomo Gavarone, International Managing Director of MedTug, highlighted the vessel’s technological advancements. “This tug is the pinnacle of performance, safety, and security in its category. Importantly, Med Aldebaran is the first in our fleet with IMO Tier III technology, marking a critical step in reducing emissions and supporting our commitment to a better world.”Aligning with Malta’s Green Vision
Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasized the strategic importance of developing Malta into a fully integrated maritime hub. He commended the investment in Med Aldebaran, stating, “This state-of-the-art tug aligns with Malta’s ambitious vision for carbon neutrality by 2050. By strengthening infrastructure, attracting investment, and fostering opportunities, we can unlock the immense potential of our Grand Harbour and drive sustainable economic growth.”Med Aldebaran represents a milestone in Tug Malta’s fleet modernization efforts and serves as a testament to innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability in the maritime sector.
