May 27th, 2026: Metal Shark Announces Pacific Manufacturing as its Australian Manufacturing Partner
Louisiana-based boatbuilder Metal Shark has announced the appointment of Pacific Manufacturing as its Australian manufacturer, further expanding the company’s global reach into defense, law enforcement, and commercial markets.
The partnership brings together Metal Shark’s globally recognized vessel designs and operational expertise with Pacific Manufacturing’s established Australian aluminium boatbuilding capability based in Queensland. Under the agreement, Pacific Manufacturing will support the local manufacture, assembly, and delivery of selected Metal Shark vessel platforms for Australian and regional markets, providing locally built solutions tailored to Australian operational requirements.
Metal Shark is internationally recognized for designing and building high-performance vessels for militaries and first responders worldwide, with key customers including the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and over 60 partner nation military forces worldwide. Pacific Manufacturing, manufacturer of the Horizon and Stessl brands, has built a strong reputation within the Australian marine industry through its focus on quality aluminim boat construction, manufacturing innovation, and customer support.
Scott James, Managing Director of Pacific Manufacturing, said the partnership represented an exciting opportunity to strengthen Australian manufacturing capability within the marine sector.
“This partnership with Metal Shark is a major milestone for Pacific Manufacturing and reflects the capability we have developed within Australian aluminium boatbuilding,” said James. “Combining Metal Shark’s globally proven vessel platforms with our local manufacturing capability allows us to deliver high-quality, mission-ready vessels built specifically for Australian conditions and operational requirements. We see significant opportunities across commercial, law enforcement, defense, and government sectors, while also supporting local jobs, skills development, and sovereign manufacturing capability.”
Henry Irizarry, USCG (Ret), Senior Vice President – International Business Development at Metal Shark, said the partnership would strengthen Metal Shark’s ability to support Australian customers locally.
“Pacific Manufacturing brings strong aluminum manufacturing capability, marine industry experience, and a commitment to quality that aligns closely with Metal Shark’s standards and values,” said Irizarry. “Establishing local manufacturing capability in Australia is an important step in supporting regional customers with proven vessel solutions, local support, and responsive delivery capability.”
Key partnership focus areas
The partnership is expected to support a range of vessel opportunities across:
- Law enforcement and patrol applications
- Search and rescue (SAR)
- Commercial and workboat operations
- Defense and government marine programs
All manufacturing activities will be undertaken at Pacific Manufacturing’s facility in Coomera, Queensland, supporting Australian industry participation and local supply chains.
Metal Shark, a Magnet Defense company, is a leading designer and 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.
