(JEANERETTE, La.) — Metal Shark has announced a contract to build 22 welded-aluminum high-speed surface interceptor vessels for the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF).
JDF has selected the Metal Shark 36 Fearless, a high-performance center console craft proven in service with multiple military, law enforcement and first responder agencies worldwide. Procured via direct purchase, these new surface interceptor vessels will be used by the JDF-Coast Guard for law enforcement, patrolling and interdiction missions within Jamaica’s exclusive economic zone. The contract also includes operational and maintenance training for the JDF.
“Our 36 Fearless is a high-performance multi-mission platform that will drastically enhance the JDF-CG’s operational capabilities,” said Henry Irizarry, Metal Shark’s vice president of international business development. “Metal Shark worked closely with the client to outfit these vessels with the most appropriate equipment to meet their specific operational requirements.”
Powered by triple 300-hp Yamaha four-stroke outboard engines and equipped with a Furuno navigation package with radar, FLIR thermal imaging camera, and Ullman shock-mitigating seating, the new vessels will reach speeds in the 55-knot range while keeping crews safe and secure in the ocean conditions prevalent off the Jamaican coast. Like Metal Shark’s entire range of Fearless-class interceptors, the 36 Fearless features a twin-stepped SVVT (stepped V, ventilated tunnel) hull designed by naval architect Michael Peters.
With the acquisition of its new Metal Shark interceptor fleet, the JDF-CG will join a list of 36 Fearless operators including the Puerto Rico Police Department, San Juan Police Department, Virginia Beach Police Department, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) law enforcement, and Royal Moroccan Navy.
– Metal Shark
