Metal Shark Reveals State-of-the-Art Monohull Patrol Vessel at Shipyard in Louisiana
In an era of rapid global changes, Metal Shark’s 40 Defiant emerges as a groundbreaking solution in the realm of monohull patrol boat platforms. Engineered to address the evolving military demands of the future, this vessel is set to redefine maritime operations. Primed as the successor to over 160 patrol vessels deployed across the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command’s Coastal Riverine Forces (CRF), Metal Shark’s 40 Defiant design was chosen in late 2017 after a rigorous selection process among seven competitive shipbuilders. The boat, showcased here in its US Navy 40 PB configuration, offers a compelling proposition for qualified operators, featuring full customization capabilities to cater to diverse mission profiles.
Unlike its predecessors, the 40 Defiant was conceived to transcend the limitations of traditional patrol boats, amplifying its mission scope and bolstering capabilities. The boat, constructed from welded aluminum and spanning 40 feet, showcases remarkable enhancements in both its capabilities and firepower. Metal Shark unveiled two prototypes of these aluminum monohull pilothouse patrol boats, with the first, Hull #001, making its debut at the 2018 International Workboat Show in New Orleans.
The essence of the 40 Defiant lies in its power projection capabilities, far surpassing those of conventional force protection boats. The vessel boasts an impressive suite of attributes, including ballistic protection that ensures sustained engagement in prolonged firefights. This empowers crews to counter asymmetric threats, such as swarm attacks, with overwhelming force, all while being shielded from hostile fire. Within the armored and climate-controlled pilothouse, a plethora of shock-absorbing seating configurations can be tailored. Further enhancing its operational prowess, the boat integrates advanced communication and sensor systems, delivering heightened situational awareness and connectivity across the fleet. This translates to expanded mission possibilities, encompassing asset protection and port security operations in permissive environments, as well as forays into hostile territories.
Visually, the 40 Defiant exudes a futuristic aesthetic, designed to fulfill the visual-deterrent requisites of contemporary naval forces. Its chiseled and imposing profile, along with a distinct faceted hull, set it apart from other military patrol boats. Unlike its counterparts that might resemble commercial or recreational vessels, the 40 Defiant immediately establishes itself as a purpose-built military machine, primed to counter any hostile threat. With a robust armament, the US Navy configuration showcases six MK 16 weapons foundations and a substantial forward foundation to support stabilized, remotely operated MK 49 / MK 50 weapons systems. Embodying the Metal Shark ethos, the 40 Defiant can be tailored to operator specifications, accommodating a wide array of available weapons systems.
Beneath its surface, the 40 Defiant employs a mission-optimized hull form, engineered to attain sprint speeds of 40 knots while ensuring exceptional dynamic stability across diverse operational settings. The vessel’s handling capabilities are enhanced, resulting in significantly reduced operational costs during escort missions at speeds of 10-15 knots, typical of force protection tasks. Powering the Navy configuration are twin Cummins QSB 6.7 diesel inboards, coupled with Twin Disc MG5065SC marine transmissions and Hamilton HTX30 water jets, specially developed for the Navy 40 PB program. Metal Shark offers a range of propulsion choices to cater to various mission profiles.
The 40 Defiant is a testament to the evolving landscape of modern military engagement. Born from extensive testing and development, this futuristic naval vessel sets a new benchmark for patrol boats, delivering unparalleled lethality, next-generation situational awareness, and significantly enhanced safety for fighting forces.
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