U.S. Sending Over 20 Metal Shark Boats to Ukraine

The U.S. is sending Ukraine 23 welded-aluminum military vessels built by Lousiana-based Metal Shark.

Six of the vessels are included as part of a $450 million security assistance package announced last week by the Department of Defense to help Ukraine fend off Russia’s invasion. Another 17 additional vessels, built as part of a long range foreign policy strategy, will be fast-tracked and shipped immediately. They include ten 38-foot Defiant pilothouse patrol vessels, four 38-foot Defiant center console patrol vessels, and three 36-foot Fearless high-performance military interceptor vessels.

“Metal Shark has been working closely with the US Embassy in Kiev since 2019 to develop the strategy now being implemented to support Ukraine’s maritime capabilities, so it is fulfilling to see that the vessels will arrive when they are most needed,” said Henry Irizarry, Metal Shark’s Vice President of International Business Development. “Metal Shark provides next-generation, proven platforms to partner nations, but most importantly, we create long term partnerships with end users to train boat crews and provide seamless technical support to assure 24/7 operational readiness.”

“We have built an efficient production machine capable of delivering high quality, next-generation military vessels, faster, and at higher volume, than anyone else in the business,” said Metal Shark’s CEO Chris Allard. “Metal Shark stands ready and able to support our warfighters with game-changing lethality, delivered via conventional or unmanned platforms, anywhere in the world, whenever needed.”

The Dpartment of Defense said it was sending 18 coastal and riverine patrol boats to Ukraine, among other munitions, as part of the $450 million package. The security package brings the United States’ assistance to Ukraine to approximately $6.1 billion since the beginning of Russia’s unprovoked invasion on February 24. Since 2014, the United States has committed more than $8.7 billion in security assistance to Ukraine.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up