November 11th, 2026: Metal Shark to Build Additional Patrol Boats for Bangladesh
New 38 Defiant orders extend a 15-year relationship with one of Metal Shark’s largest international military customers
Louisiana-based military boat builder Metal Shark has received orders to construct additional 38 Defiant patrol boats for Bangladesh, continuing a longstanding relationship that dates back to 2011.
Strategically positioned along the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh plays an important role in maritime security across the broader Indo-Pacific region, and the United States and Bangladesh have maintained a longstanding defense partnership. Over the past 15 years, Bangladesh has become one of Metal Shark’s most significant international customers, acquiring more than 50 patrol boats operated by the country’s Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. The latest orders further expand a fleet that has supported maritime security, patrol, interdiction, and coastal defense missions for more than a decade.
“There’s no greater endorsement of our products than a customer who continues to come back to us year after year,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard. “Bangladesh has been a valued customer for over 15 years, and we’re tremendously proud of the trust their armed forces have placed in Metal Shark. Beyond delivering reliable vessels, we’re proud to support a longstanding U.S. security partner whose maritime capabilities contribute to stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region.”
The welded-aluminum 38 Defiant is a proven military and law enforcement platform designed for coastal patrol, maritime interdiction, port security, search and rescue, and other security missions. Combining high-speed performance and responsive maneuverability with all-weather crew protection, the versatile platform has been delivered to military and government customers worldwide.
Bangladesh’s continued investment in the 38 Defiant also provides significant advantages in fleet commonality, simplifying operator training, maintenance, logistics, and long-term sustainment across multiple military and maritime security organizations.
“Bangladesh has been an exceptionally important partner for Metal Shark, and the longevity of this relationship is something we value greatly,” said Henry Irizarry, Metal Shark’s Senior Vice President of International Business Development. “Over the years, we’ve worked closely with our Bangladeshi customers to understand their evolving operational requirements and deliver vessels suited to their missions. We’re honored to continue supporting their fleet and look forward to building on this relationship for many years to come.”
The additional vessels will be constructed at Metal Shark’s production facility in Jeanerette, Louisiana, where the company has built hundreds of 38 Defiant patrol boats for U.S. and international military customers.
About Metal Shark
Metal Shark is a leading designer and builder of high-performance vessels for militaries and first responders. For more than two decades, the company has delivered mission-ready platforms to customers across the United States and to over 70 partner nation military forces worldwide. Headquartered in Louisiana, Metal Shark operates multiple shipbuilding facilities and has delivered well over 2,000 vessels to date. The company is recognized for its innovative designs, robust engineering, and commitment to quality.
