
Vietnam Coast Guard Region 3 Metal Shark boat underway, it is capable of reaching 35 knots
“This official transfer at Region III Station at Van Phong Bay, the most central territory of Vietnam, is another milestone and evidence of the continued friendship between the U.S. and Vietnam,” said Colonel Nguyen Minh Khanh, Vice Commander, VCG Region III.

Senior Colonel Khanh and LCDR Byers shake hands after the U.S. government officially hands over 6 metal shark boats and supporting equipment worth an estimated USD12 million
Delivering these patrol vessels represents deepening U.S.-Vietnam cooperation in the areas of maritime law enforcement, maritime search and rescue, and maritime humanitarian assistance operations within Vietnam’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone. These patrols boats will assist VCG Region III in costal patrols and law enforcement to combat smuggling, illicit trafficking, piracy and armed robbery against ships, and illegal fishing. Over the past two weeks, the Vietnam Coast Guard has demonstrated their ability to operate the Metal Shark boats with proficiency and have proven they are ready for more advanced Metal Shark training.
The U.S. Embassy, through its Office of Defense Cooperation, coordinates U.S.-Vietnam security cooperation activities on behalf of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command to advance common defense goals and interests. This cooperation, as agreed upon in the September 2011 Memorandum of Understanding on defense cooperation, includes security assistance and educational exchanges between the U.S. and Vietnamese militaries.