Louisiana-based boatbuilder Metal Shark has been awarded two US Coast Guard Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts to produce patrol boats for the maritime forces of Cameroon and the Republic of Georgia.
As disclosed, each contract includes a Metal Shark 38 Defiant patrol boat, transport trailer, spare-parts package, and operator training. The vessels will be constructed at the company’s production facility in Jeanerette, Louisiana.
“These awards mark Metal Shark’s entry into two new markets while delivering new capabilities that will modernize the maritime fleets of Georgia and Cameroon,” said Metal Shark’s Senior Vice President of International Business Development, Henry Irizarry.
“We are proud to support these partner nations in strengthening maritime security, operational readiness, and mission effectiveness."
Through the US FMS program, the vessels and associated support packages are expected to help Cameroon and Georgia strengthen their maritime law-enforcement capabilities, protect territorial waters and critical infrastructure, and respond more effectively to evolving regional security challenges.
Defiant is a military and law-enforcement patrol platform designed to support coastal patrol, maritime interdiction, port security, search and rescue, and other security missions. Initially proven in service with the US Navy and US Coast Guard, it is now operated by US partner nations across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.
The vessel combines high-speed performance and responsive maneuverability with Metal Shark’s Defiant-series pilothouse, which provides enhanced visibility and all-weather crew protection. The adaptable platform may be configured with multiple propulsion arrangements and mission-specific equipment to meet a broad range of mission profiles, according to the company.
“At a time when maritime security is taking on greater strategic importance worldwide, these awards demonstrate the growing international demand for capable, proven, and supportable patrol platforms,” stated Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard.
“Metal Shark is well positioned to meet that demand, and we remain focused on expanding our global reach, entering new markets, and delivering long-term value to the United States and its partner nations.”
Recently, Metal Shark has been awarded a US Government contract to build 13 patrol boats for Vietnam, with options for additional vessels.