Bangladesh receives Metal Shark boats from US

US hands over 5 Metal Shark boats to Bangladesh Navy. Photo c/o US Embassy in Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh Navy (BN) received five (5) coastal patrol boats built by Metal Shark from the US government. This is part of the US government’s commitment to help Bangladesh improve its ability to conduct anti-piracy and counter-terrorism.

The boats will be used by the BN’s Special Warfare Diving and Salvage (SWADS) Group.

US Navy Rear Adm. Joey Tynch, commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific personally presented the boats to the BN leadership.

No mention was made on the exact variant of Metal Shark boat, but it was that they are capable of reaching speeds of up to 35 knots, and are large enough to operate in coastal areas in various conditions.

Bangladesh already operates a small fleet of Metal Shark-made boats, but are operated by the Bangladesh Coast Guard for use on maritime law enforcement and humanitarian assistance.



[1] Naval Today
[2] Jane’s Defence Weekly