Colombia to Receive Three Island-Class Patrol Boats from the US

The U.S. Coast Guard will transfer three decommissioned Island-class patrol boats to the Colombian Navy, the service announced in a press release.

The vessels – Liberty (WPB 1334), Mustang (WPB 1310), and Naushon (WPB 1311) – were officially retired from service on May 14 in Ketchikan, Alaska.

These are the final boats of the 110-foot Island class, which is being replaced by the more modern Sentinel-class cutters.

Although the vessels have exceeded their planned service lives, they will continue operating under the Colombian flag.

The transfer is being carried out under the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program.

On April 19, the U.S. donated two Island-class boats to the Tunisian Navy.

Island-Class Patrol Boats

Island-class patrol boats were developed in the 1980s for the U.S. Coast Guard. Designed for coastal patrol, search and rescue, anti-smuggling, and maritime border enforcement, they remain in service worldwide.

Each vessel measures approximately 110 feet (34 meters) in length, with a top speed of more than 29 knots and a range of up to 3,300 kilometers at cruising speed. They can operate for up to five days without refueling, making them suitable for extended missions.

The hulls are constructed of steel, while the superstructures are made from aluminum to reduce weight without compromising strength.

Standard armament includes a 25 mm Bushmaster cannon mounted on the bow and two 12.7 mm machine guns. Some vessels were later upgraded with enhanced sensors and control systems.

The typical crew complement is around 16 personnel. Known for their reliability and durability, Island-class patrol boats were in active service for over three decades before being gradually phased out. U.S. military assistance programs have transferred many decommissioned units to partner nations.

In addition to Colombia, recipient countries have included Ukraine, Georgia, Costa Rica, Pakistan, and the Philippines. Many of these vessels remain in service following local upgrades and refits.