In a new gesture of defense cooperation between the two countries, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) formalized the delivery of an Island-class patrol boat to the Ecuadorian Navy, symbolizing the shared commitment to strengthening maritime security and control over Pacific routes. The ceremony, held in Maryland with the presence of officers from both nations, included the traditional change of flags, officially commissioning the new Coast Guard Cutter Isla Santa Rosa. This transfer reaffirms the strategic partnership between Quito and Washington in the face of challenges posed by transnational organized crime in the region.
The handover ceremony was conducted under the agreements reached during the meeting held on November 29, 2024, between the Commander of the Ecuadorian Navy, Admiral Miguel Córdova, and the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, Admiral Linda Fagan. On that occasion, both authorities coordinated the details for the transfer of two Island-class patrol boats as part of a technical and operational assistance program promoted by the U.S. Department of Defense. The transfer was signed by delegates of both countries in accordance with the memorandum of understanding signed in 2023, which provides for strengthening Ecuador’s naval capabilities.
Defense cooperation between Ecuador and the United States has gained particular relevance in recent years. In March 2024, the Ecuadorian Air Force incorporated a Hercules C-130H transport aircraft —tail number FAE 898— donated by Washington, expanding its strategic airlift fleet. These actions are part of an assistance package valued at 93.4 million dollars, aimed at reinforcing Ecuador’s security and defense capabilities, with special emphasis on combating drug trafficking and transnational criminal organizations.
The donated Island-class patrol boats correspond to the former USCGC Anacapa (WPB-1335) and USCGC Orcas (WPB-1327), recently retired from active service with the U.S. Coast Guard. Measuring 33.5 meters in length, both units will be transferred at no cost to Ecuador, apart from refitting and transportation expenses. Their incorporation will strengthen patrol operations, maritime control, search and rescue (SAR), and the fight against illegal fishing within Ecuador’s exclusive economic zone.
Built by Bollinger Shipyards in Lockport, Louisiana, the Island-class patrol boats were specifically designed for the USCG as replacements for the Point- and Cape-class cutters. These vessels became noted for their reliability and performance in maritime security missions, drug interdiction operations, and humanitarian assistance tasks. Equipped with two Paxman Valenta 16RP200M or Caterpillar 3516 DITA diesel engines, they can reach speeds of up to 30 knots and a range of 3,380 nautical miles at 8 knots, and accommodate a crew of up to 16. Their armament includes a 25 mm Mk-38 cannon and two .50-caliber machine guns.
Image credits: U.S. Embassy in Ecuador.
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