Vietnam Receives Six US Metal Shark Patrol Boats

Vietnam’s coast guard received six U.S.-made Metal Shark patrol boats to improve its maritime defence capabilities in the disputed South China Sea.

The 45-foot Metal Shark patrol boats were officially handed over by US Ambassador Ted Osius to the coast guard Monday in the central province of Quang Nam, the Bangkok Post reported Tuesday.

The embassy said in a statement that the handover represented deepening cooperation in maritime law enforcement and humanitarian assistance in Vietnam's territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.

These patrols boats will assist the coast guard in intercostal patrols and law enforcement in smuggling, illicit trafficking, piracy and armed robbery against ships, and illegal fishing.

The Metal Shark 75 Defiant Patrol boat is capable of achieving 40+ knots. For the ideal balance of performance, economy, and reliability, twin Caterpillar C32 diesels mated to Hamilton HM-651 waterjets will propel the vessel to speeds in the 30-knot range.