Tanzania acquires 50-knot speed boats for maritime security

DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has today, July 31, 2026, launched two patrol boats equipped with high-speed capabilities that can travel from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar in about 30 minutes, strengthening Tanzania’s capacity to monitor its waters and respond to maritime security threats.

The boats, named PB Sailfish 02 and PB Sailfish 03, where launched in Dar es Salaam as part of efforts to enhance patrol operations and security in Tanzania’s territorial waters and the Great Lakes region.

The vessels can reach a maximum speed of 50 knots, equivalent to approximately 92.6 kilometres per hour, allowing them to respond quickly to incidents at sea depending on weather and travel conditions.

The patrol boats were built in Japan in accordance with international standards and specifications approved by Tanzanian government experts.

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Before completion, technical teams from the Prime Minister’s Office, Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Institute of Rural Development Planning conducted inspection visits to assess the quality and progress of the project.

The two boats add to the first Patrol Boat Sailfish, which was launched on March 2, 2024, expanding Tanzania’s maritime surveillance fleet.

Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities), Prof Palamagamba Kabudi, explained that Sailfish translates to “Sulisuli” in Kiswahili, a fish known for its exceptional speed in the ocean.

He said the investment has increased the government’s ability to conduct patrols, investigations and prevent maritime crimes while protecting national interests in marine resources.

The new vessels are expected to play a key role in strengthening coastal security and supporting efforts to safeguard Tanzania’s blue economy.