October 12th, 2026: Metal Shark Awarded U.S. Coast Guard FMS Contracts for Cameroon and Georgia

Louisiana-based boatbuilder Metal Shark has been awarded two U.S. Coast Guard Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts to produce patrol boats for the maritime forces of Cameroon and the Republic of Georgia.

Each contract includes a Metal Shark 38 Defiant patrol boat, transport trailer, spare-parts package, and operator training. The vessels will be constructed at Metal Shark’s production facility in Jeanerette, Louisiana.

“These awards mark Metal Shark’s entry into two new markets while delivering new capabilities that will modernize the maritime fleets of Georgia and Cameroon,” said Metal Shark’s Senior Vice President of International Business Development, Henry Irizarry. “We are proud to support these partner nations in strengthening maritime security, operational readiness, and mission effectiveness.”

The welded-aluminum 38 Defiant is a proven military and law-enforcement patrol platform designed to support coastal patrol, maritime interdiction, port security, search and rescue, and other security missions. Initially proven in service with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard, Metal Shark’s 38 Defiant platform is now operated by U.S. partner nations across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.

The vessel combines high-speed performance and responsive maneuverability with Metal Shark’s signature Defiant-series pilothouse, which provides enhanced visibility and all-weather crew protection. The adaptable platform may be configured with multiple propulsion arrangements and mission-specific equipment to meet a broad range of mission profiles.

“At a time when maritime security is taking on greater strategic importance worldwide, these awards demonstrate the growing international demand for capable, proven, and supportable patrol platforms,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard. “Metal Shark is well positioned to meet that demand, and we remain focused on expanding our global reach, entering new markets, and delivering long-term value to the United States and its partner nations.”

Through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, the vessels and associated support packages will help Cameroon and Georgia strengthen their maritime law-enforcement capabilities, protect territorial waters and critical infrastructure, and respond more effectively to evolving regional security challenges.

With over 70 U.S. partner nation military forces now operating Metal Shark vessels, these awards further expand the company’s established role in supporting maritime forces worldwide.

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 military forces in more than 70 U.S. partner nations 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.