Press Release | Wednesday 2 september 2026
Two lifesavers join forces for maritime safety
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Dräger and VIKING Life-Saving Equipment combine expertise for maritime & shipping-ready safety solutions and services in a new sales and service partnership.
• VIKING will distribute a wide portfolio of Dräger-safety technology for the marine and shipping sectors through its global network
• Merchant shipping companies gain access to a complete safety offering – from evacuation and rescue systems to protective equipment
At the SMM in Hamburg (September 1–4), Dräger and VIKING Life-Saving Equipment A/S have officially launched their strategic sales partnership in the maritime safety market. The aim of the collaboration is to give shipping companies worldwide even better access to Dräger-safety solutions and services, while jointly establishing a leading position in this market segment.
As part of the partnership, a broad range of Dräger's safety portfolio will now be offered through VIKING's sales and service network. The globally active Danish company, headquartered in Esbjerg, operates one of the industry's most extensive networks. More than 280 certified service stations ensure the maintenance and inspection of safety equipment directly at ports, while over 85 company-owned branches worldwide manage sales and local customer service. Dräger supplies, among other things, firefighting products for shipboard fire brigades, gas detection, respiratory protection systems, alcohol and drug detection as well as lifesaving equipment that will seamlessly complement VIKING's portfolio of maritime rescue and fire protection solutions going forward.
"For maritime customers, having access to products and service from a single source is a decisive factor in keeping safety equipment ready for use at all times. With VIKING, we have found a partner that is present exactly where our customers need complete safety solutions – in the world's key port regions," says Rainer Klug, Executive Board Member Safety Technology at Dräger.
“Both VIKING and Dräger are renowned for their expertise and for the quality of their equipment. This partnership aims to leverage the benefits of scale and strong collaboration to ensure continuity in supply and service in this critical area of safety and life-saving equipment”, states Henrik Helsinghof, CEO, VIKING Life-Saving Equipment A/S.
Visitors to this year's SMM in Hamburg looking to learn more about the manufacturers' offerings can find Dräger in Hall B5, Booth 537, and VIKING's booth 514 in Hall B1 (groundfloor).
Dräger. Technology for Life®
Dräger is an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology. Our products protect, support, and save lives. Founded in 1889, Dräger generated revenues of around €3.5 billion in 2025. The Dräger Group is currently present in over 190 countries and has more than 16,000 employees worldwide. Please visit www.draeger.com for more information.
About VIKING
VIKING Life-Saving Equipment is a global leader in maritime, defence and fire safety solutions. Founded in 1960 and headquartered in Esbjerg, Denmark, VIKING designs, manufactures, supplies, and services a wide range of lifesaving and firefighting equipment for the cruise and ferry industry, naval forces, coastguards, maritime authorities, offshore operators, and commercial shipping fleets worldwide. Core product groups include marine evacuation systems, liferafts, lifejackets, immersion and fire suits, lifeboats, rescue boats and support craft, davits, and related lifesaving appliances.
Trusted by professional users operating in the most demanding marine environments, VIKING delivers proven safety products and integrated service concepts that ensure operational readiness and regulatory compliance. The company is privately owned and has production facilities in Denmark, Norway, Greece, China, and Thailand, supported by a global network of servicing stations and safety experts. Further information is available at www.VIKING-life.com.
Contact
Communications: Ulrike Abratis, Tel. +49 451 882-3202, ulrike.abratis@draeger.com
Trade press: Caroline Juerss, Tel. +49 451 882-3141, carolinesophie.juerss@draeger.com
Investor Relations: Thomas Fischler, Tel. +49 451 882-2685, thomas.fischler@draeger.com
