American boat builder Metal Shark has handed over four more of its interceptor vessels to the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Coast Guard.
The 36-foot high-speed interceptors, based on the Louisiana-based firm’s Fearless design, are capable of speeds in excess of 55 knots and are optimised for operations in littoral Caribbean environments.
Eight have so far been delivered under the deal struck in 2023; the first four were handed over in mid-March this year. The remaining 14 vessels on order are currently under construction at Metal Shark’s factory in Jeanerette, with a phased delivery schedule in place.
The boats include Furuno navigation and radar packages, as well as forward-looking infra-red (FLIR) thermal imaging capabilities.
Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard commented: “These vessels are designed and built to perform in demanding conditions, and we’re proud to see them already operating in support of critical national missions.”
Its Senior Vice President of International Business Development Henry Irizarry added: “Whether conducting coastal patrols, intercepting illicit trafficking, supporting search and rescue operations, or safeguarding Jamaica’s maritime borders, these platforms will give the Coast Guard the capability to respond rapidly and effectively.”
At the March ceremony marking the first boats’ delivery, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Ambassador Rocky Meade said: “They will enhance the readiness and responsiveness of the maritime, air and cyber command, specifically the Coast Guard, in enabling them to more effectively detect, deter, disrupt illicit activities at sea.”
Chief of Defence Staff, Vice Admiral Antonette Wemyss-Gorman said the vessels’ delivery was “a significant milestone for the Coast Guard.”
- You can read more details on the Metal Shark website and the Jamaica Information Service website