Dominican Republic Navy receives U.S. donated interceptor boat

The Dominican Republic Navy has incorporated a new SPICA LI-171 interceptor boat, donated by the United States government, to strengthen maritime security and operational capabilities. The vessel, a SAFE 33 Full Cabin model manufactured by the American company SAFE Boats International, is valued at approximately $1.9 million.

The addition of this high-speed aluminum craft is intended to enhance the Navy's ability to patrol, surveil, and intercept suspicious vessels, as well as respond to illicit activities in maritime spaces. The boat features a closed cabin with weather protection, a capacity for up to 26 people, and a maximum range of 270 nautical miles.

The handover ceremony took place at the 27 de Febrero Naval Base in Santo Domingo Este. It was led by Dominican Defense Minister Lieutenant General Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre and U.S. Embassy Minister Counselor Prashant Hemady, highlighting the ongoing bilateral cooperation between the two nations regarding defense and security.