April 7th, 2026: Metal Shark Delivers 55′ Patrol Vessel to Massachusetts State Police Marine Unit

Louisiana-based boatbuilder Metal Shark has announced the delivery of a new 55 Defiant NXT patrol vessel to the Massachusetts State Police Marine Unit.

Designed in-house by Metal Shark and built at the company’s Franklin, Louisiana production facility, the 55 Defiant NXT was purpose-built to support the Marine Unit’s broad and demanding mission set, which spans inland waterways, ports, and offshore coastal areas. Missions will include security operations in Boston Harbor, enforcement of safety and security zones, search and rescue, critical infrastructure protection, and year-round operations in some of the most challenging maritime environments in the United States.

Designed for sustained operations in Sea State 5+ conditions, the 55 Defiant NXT combines offshore capability, advanced command-and-control functionality, and crew-focused ergonomics in a platform optimized for safety, reliability, and reduced maintenance downtime.

“The 55 Defiant NXT was designed specifically to meet the operational realities faced by agencies like the Massachusetts State Police,” said Dean Jones, Metal Shark’s VP of Sales for LE, Fire, and Specialty Markets. “The vessel delivers offshore performance and advanced technology, with a layout that prioritizes crew safety and ease of maintenance, allowing the Marine Unit to maintain continuous operational readiness while minimizing downtime.”

The substantial 55 Defiant NXT is nearly 61’ long including its integrated dive platform, with a beam of 16.5’ and a weight of over 55,000 lbs. Powered by twin Caterpillar C18 engines rated at 800 horsepower each, the vessel delivers speeds of approximately 30 knots at wide-open throttle and is equipped with conventional propeller drives, electric-hydraulic steering, autopilot, and automatic interceptor tabs. Onboard systems include dual generators, a Seakeeper stabilization system, bow thruster, multi-zone HVAC, and heated exterior decks to support extreme winter operations.

The patrol vessel features an oversized offshore command-and-control pilothouse with shock-mitigating flooring, SHOXS seating, heated windshields, and integrated communications. Electronics include triple Raymarine Axiom XL 16-inch multifunction displays, advanced radar and sonar, encrypted AIS, FLIR M400XR thermal imaging, exterior deck cameras, and comprehensive search-and-rescue and scene lighting. Dedicated storage supports dive operations, weapons, medical equipment, and foul-weather gear.

Additional mission-specific features include an ice protection package, bow push knees, a full-width dive and rescue platform, tow package, electric anchor and windlass, antifouling bottom paint, and customized galley and storage solutions to support extended patrol and response operations.

“Metal Shark specializes in building advanced craft for critical missions, capable of sustained operation in conditions that demand absolute confidence in both crew and equipment,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard. “The 55 Defiant NXT reflects Metal Shark’s continued focus on delivering mission-ready platforms that integrate proven hull design, modern technology, and thoughtful human-factors engineering, ensuring agencies have the tools they need to operate safely and effectively, year-round.”

Metal Shark, a Magnet Defense company, is a leading builder of high-performance vessels for militaries and first responders, with more than two decades of experience delivering mission-ready platforms to customers worldwide. Headquartered in Louisiana, the company operates multiple shipbuilding facilities and is recognized for its innovative designs, robust engineering, and commitment to quality.