The Jamaican Defence Force Coast Guard has taken delivery of three 200-ton offshore patrol vessels. The three vessels, Cornwall , Middlesex , and Surrey , were built by Damen shipyards in the Netherlands, and delivered between 2005 and 2006. The final unit of the class, Surrey , is pictured here while conducting sea trials during October 2006. Measuring 41.8-meters long by 7-meters wide with a draft of 2.5 meters, the new vessels are capable of traveling at 25 knots top speed. Intended for Exclusive Economic Zone patrol, search and rescue, counter-drug operations, and other duties, each carries a crew of 12 plus up to 4 passengers. The three patrol craft are powered by two Caterpillar 3516 diesel engines which allow for a range of roughly 1,800 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots. The Jamaican Defence Force Coast Guard was formed in 1962 and consists of about 250 sailors, including about 60 reservists. Also operated by the JDFCG are about 20 smaller patrol boats, including the 32.3 meter Paul Bogle and 34.5 meter Fort Charles .
