U.S. Gov’t invests US$20 million in Jamaica’s Maritime Security

​As part of the U.S. Government’s US$20 million dollar investment in Jamaica’s maritime security, U.S. Embassy Kingston’s Chargé d’Affaires Eric Khant officially handed over a Boston Whaler and SAFE Boat to Jamaica’s Chief of Defense Staff Lt. General Rocky Meade.  

The boats are the final two of 10 vessels donated to the JDF Coast Guard by the U.S. Government since 2014.  For sustainability, the requisite maintenance parts were also provided by the USG ensuring long-term use of the vessels.  The handover took place on Thursday, May 9 at the JDF Coast Guard Base, Port Royal, Kingston. The U.S. Embassy’s Military Liaison Office facilitated this extensive program, which also includes the donation of four Ford F450 trucks and training sessions on the effective use of the boats.

In his remarks, Chargé Khant highlighted the strong partnership between the U.S. and Jamaica. “We hope these boats will enhance the JDF’s capacity to secure Jamaica’s beautiful coasts and water. We are proud to stand with Jamaica in its efforts to improve security in the region.”​

Source: US Embassy Jamaica