Port of San Diego Harbor Police Announces Replacement of Regional Marine Fire and Tactical Training Simulator
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
At its January meeting, the Port of San Diego’s Board of Port Commissioners approved the purchase of a new fire and tactical training simulator for its Harbor Police Department (HPD). HPD is moving forward with plans to replace its long-serving marine fire and tactical training simulator, a one-of-a-kind regional resource that has supported public safety on the San Diego Bay waterfront for more than a decade.
In 2014, HPD upgraded its original shipping container-based live fire training simulator to better meet marine firefighting needs. The current system, built on a retired U.S. Navy LCM “Mike Boat,” has served as an essential training platform for new officers and ongoing certification. After years of heavy use, flame exposure, and saltwater corrosion, the equipment has reached the end of its service life. By early 2024, it became clear that a full replacement was necessary to keep training safe and effective.
The new simulator will carry forward everything HPD has learned over the last decade but with major improvements. It will feature updated technology, enhanced safety systems, and full compliance with the latest National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. The design also offers greater flexibility, allowing Harbor Police to train not only for marine firefighting but also maritime tactical interdiction, shipboard rescues, basic law enforcement scenarios, radiation and nuclear detection, and hazardous materials response.
“Giving the women and men who put their lives on the line every day the resources they need to protect and serve everyone along our waterfront is key to a thriving and safe community,” said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “We take great pride in the unique role Harbor Police officers play as both law enforcement and firefighters.”
“Simulators like the one used for fire and tactical training are essential for maintaining the high level of readiness our officers need to protect the waterfront,” said Port of San Diego Harbor Police Chief Magda Fernandez. “The flexibility of the new design ensures we can train for the full spectrum of maritime threats and emergencies while strengthening coordination with regional partner agencies.”
Chula Vista–based Marine Group Boatworks LLC was awarded the $1.5 million contract to build the new simulator and remove the existing one. A portion of the cost—$825,000—will be covered by a Department of Homeland Security Fiscal Year 2024 Port Security Grant Program award. The remaining funding will come from the Port of San Diego and the Harbor Police Department, with long-term maintenance supported by Harbor Police and Field Operations budgets.
Once completed, the new simulator will serve as a regional public safety asset and will be made available for joint inter-agency training once operational. The Harbor Police will use the system regularly to stay prepared for any emergency on San Diego Bay and throughout the waterfront of the Port’s five member cities: Chula Vista, Coronado, Imperial Beach, National City, and San Diego.
For more information on the Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department and available career opportunities visit portofsandiego.org/public-safety.
ABOUT THE PORT OF SAN DIEGO
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 23 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO PUBLIC SAFETY
Port of San Diego Public Safety protects and oversees the safety of our dynamic San Diego Bay waterfront—land and sea.
Port Public Safety is responsible for safeguarding waterfront parks and land, maintaining homeland security and collaborating with agency partners to deter crime locally and abroad. Through the Harbor Police Department, the Port provides for the safety of our communities and resources along San Diego Bay and at San Diego International Airport, and is seen as a global leader in maritime and aviation public safety.