Durrant Pate/Contributor 

Louisiana-based boatbuilder Metal Shark has been contracted to build 22 welded aluminium high-speed surface interceptor vessels for the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). 

The JDF selected the Metal Shark 36 Fearless, a high-performance centre 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-Coast Guard’s operational capabilities,” explains Metal Shark’s vice president of international business development, Henry Irizarry.

Vessel specs

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 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 vee, ventilated tunnel) hull designed by renowned naval architect, Michael Peters. 

With the acquisition of its new Metal Shark interceptor fleet, the JDF-Coast Guard will join a growing list of 36 Fearless operators including the Puerto Rico Police Department, San Juan Police Department, Virginia Beach Police Department, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, NOAA Law Enforcement, and Royal Moroccan Navy.

For his part, Metal Shark CEO, Chris Allard commented, “Our high-performance Fearless models are steadily becoming the go-to choice for militaries and law enforcement agencies needing faster, offshore-capable interceptors. Whether selling two, four, fifteen, or now an unprecedented 22 of them at a time, we continue to showcase our ability to rapidly and repeatedly deliver a high-quality, high-performance vessel that is unique in the marketplace and growing in demand.”