Metal Shark, Jeanerette, La., has delivered a new 55 Defiant NXT patrol vessel to the Massachusetts State Police Marine Unit, expanding the agency’s capabilities across inland, port, and offshore operations, the boatbuilder said in an April 7 statement.
Designed in-house and constructed at Metal Shark’s Franklin, La., facility, the aluminum patrol boat is intended to support a range of missions in Boston Harbor and along the Massachusetts coast. These include maritime security, enforcement of safety zones, search and rescue, and critical infrastructure protection, with year-round operations in challenging conditions.
MetalShark said in a statement the 55 Defiant NXT is designed for sustained operations in Sea State 5 conditions, combining offshore capability with integrated command-and-control systems and crew-focused design features. The 61'x16.5' vessel includes an integrated dive platform, with a displacement exceeding 55,000 lbs.
Propulsion is provided by twin Caterpillar C18 diesel engines, each rated at 800 hp, delivering a top speed of about 30 knots. The vessel is equipped with conventional propeller drives, electric-hydraulic steering, autopilot, and automatic interceptor trim tabs.
Ship’s systems include dual generators, a Seakeeper stabilization system, bow thruster, multi-zone HVAC, and heated exterior decks to support cold-weather operations typical of the Northeast.
The pilothouse is configured for offshore operations and includes shock-mitigating flooring, SHOXS seating, heated windshields, and integrated communications systems. The electronics suite features three Raymarine Axiom XL 16-in. multifunction displays, radar and sonar systems, encrypted AIS, FLIR Marine M400XR thermal imaging, exterior cameras, and search-and-rescue lighting.
Mission-specific outfitting includes dedicated storage for dive gear, weapons, medical equipment, and foul-weather gear. Additional features include an ice protection package, bow push knees, a full-width dive and rescue platform, towing package, electric anchor and windlass, and antifouling coatings.
Metal Shark said the vessel is designed to maintain operational readiness while minimizing maintenance downtime, supporting continuous deployment in demanding environments.
The company, a Magnet Defense business, builds vessels for military, law enforcement, and commercial customers and operates multiple shipyards in Louisiana.
