Metal Shark introduces 70-knot military Super Interceptor

Metal Shark developed the 52 Fearless Super Interceptor in response to growing demand by military operators for larger and faster interdiction craft

Shipbuilder Metal Shark, Jeanerette, La., has introduced an offshore-capable, ultra-high-performance military patrol vessel delivering 70-knot top speeds. Production of the the new welded-aluminum 52 Fearless Super Interceptor vessels is now underway at Metal Shark’s Jeanerette shipyard with 15 vessels currently on order for overseas military and law enforcement interests.

Metal Shark developed the 52 Fearless Super Interceptor in response to growing demand by military operators for larger and faster interdiction craft with greater range and better sea keeping.

“Customers from around the world have asked for a blue water-capable interdiction vessel with 60+ knot capabilities,” said Henry Irizarry, Metal Shark’s Vice President of International Business Development. “With the 52 Fearless Super Interceptor, we have exceeded that requirement by a significant margin, with a multi-mission high-performance vessel delivering unmatched speed, handling, and sea keeping while also leveraging over a decade of parent craft Fearless-class past performance.”

The new offering is a highly optimized version of Metal Shark’s 52-foot Fearless high-performance center console vessel, utilizing the proven Stepped Vee, Ventilated Tunnel (SVVT) running surface designed by naval architect Michael Peters. Metal Shark’s Fearless-class stepped bottom vessels are currently in service with the U.S. Navy, NOAA, and multiple law enforcement agencies in the United States and Caribbean.

A custom-configurable platform designed for missions ranging from counter narcotics to the protection of exclusive economic zones and other related maritime enforcement activities, the new vessel is available with multiple pre-engineered configuration, propulsion, and equipment options.

The first 15 Super Interceptors are being built in a center console configuration with seating for six crew in Shockwave shock-mitigating seats beneath an integrated aluminum hard top.

The vessels will be powered by twin 1,650 horsepower MAN 12-cylinder diesel inboard engines mated to Arneson ASD14 surface drives via ZF transmissions. With this power package, the Super Interceptor will reach a projected top speed in the 70-knot range. The vessel’s flexible configuration allows for a maximum fuel capacity of 1,000 gallons, which results in an impressive 12.5 hours endurance at 50 knots.

With an overall length of nearly 58 feet (17.5 meters), a beam of over 11 feet (3.5 meters) and an operational displacement of up to 8 tons, the vessel is large and imposing.

To satisfy modern military visual-deterrent requirements, the Super Interceptor boasts chiseled and menacing lines that include the distinctive “faceted hull” initially developed by Metal Shark for the U.S. Navy and now being widely incorporated across the shipbuilder’s product portfolio.

“In terms of speed, size, endurance, and sheer awe factor, this vessel represents a radical leap forward,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard. “The Fearless Super Interceptor will be made available for our customers in a range of styles and sizes to meet various operational requirements. We look forward to showcasing the superlative performance of this next-generation military patrol platform and providing additional details in the months ahead.”