Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) to Bring Back USCG Steadfast by Year-End

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is expected to bring back the United States Coast Guard (USCG) vessel, USCG STEADFAST, by the end of this year.

In a statement issued on MMEA’s social media today, MMEA Director-General Maritime Rear Admiral Datuk Haji Mohd Rosli bin Abdullah confirmed that the USCG STEADFAST is in good condition and that its workspaces are highly suitable for accommodating MMEA officers and enforcement personnel.

“The refurbishment process for the vessel will be undertaken, and its inclusion in MMEA’s asset inventory soon will enhance operational enforcement capabilities, particularly in implementing the ‘ever-present’ and ‘the right asset for the right mission’ concepts within Malaysian maritime zones,” said Mohd Rosli.

He further noted that key aspects of the vessel’s return include ensuring operational readiness, power generation, hull and frame structure, communication systems, navigation, and domestic facilities.

Prior to this, Mohd Rosli had paid a courtesy visit to the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, Admiral Linda Lee Fagan, in Washington D.C. to strengthen international cooperation.

 The meeting sought to bolster the longstanding ties between MMEA and the US Coast Guard.

During the one-on-one session, Admiral Fagan congratulated Mohd Rosli on his appointment as MMEA’s seventh Director-General and expressed keen interest in learning about his vision and strategies to propel MMEA to greater heights.

The USCG also reiterated its strong support for MMEA’s efforts to safeguard Malaysia’s waters and emphasized the importance of collaboration in areas such as maritime security and Intelligence Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR).

“I am deeply grateful for the USCG’s support and believe that this cooperation will enhance our maritime security and benefit the international community,” said Mohd Rosli.

The MMEA delegation also visited the USCG Surface Acquisitions Logistics Center in Baltimore, where discussions were held on the provision of vessel support equipment and facilities for MMEA crew undergoing familiarization with the new asset.

Among the equipment ready for handover are Damage Control and Fire Fighting (DCFF) tools, domestic equipment such as galley fittings, and items on the Onboard Spare List (OSL).

The United States Coast Guard vessel “USCGC Steadfast” measures 64.16 meters in length, with a width of 10 meters and a weight of 1,100 tons.

The ship can accommodate up to 12 officers and 63 enlisted personnel at one time, with a top speed of 18 knots and an operational range of up to 6,100 nautical miles.

“USCGC Steadfast” was commissioned into the United States Coast Guard service in 1968, marking 56 years of service. The vessel was officially decommissioned on February 1, 2024. — DSA