New 25m patrol boat delivered to Panama’s aeronaval service

Photo: Panama Ministry of National Security

The National Aeronaval Service of Panama (Servicio Nacional Aeronaval; SENAN) has taken delivery of a new near coastal patrol vessel (NCPV) from US builder Metal Shark Boats.

Named General Omar Torrijos after the country’s former military leader, the newbuild has a length of 25 metres, a beam of 6.2 metres, and space for 10 crewmembers. Two Caterpillar C32 engines deliver a maximum speed of 28 knots.

The boat is also equipped with electro-optical and infrared cameras and a stern launch and recovery system for one rigid inflatable boat (RIB).

General Omar Torrijos belongs to a series of 13 NCPVs built by Metal Shark for various US partner nations in Central and South America. The boats were ordered by the US Navy under a US$54 million contract awarded in 2017.


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