The government of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled a comprehensive maritime security enhancement plan as part of its 2026 national budget, signaling a decisive crackdown on transnational criminal operations in its territorial waters. Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced the forthcoming acquisition of a substantial 65-70 foot offshore patrol vessel specifically designed to strengthen deep-water operations against narcotics trafficking networks.
The strategic investment represents a significant escalation in the nation’s border protection capabilities, building upon earlier security measures that included the deployment of a 30-foot interceptor vessel to law enforcement agencies. ‘We’re going for the drug traffickers with superior resources,’ Browne declared before Parliament. ‘We now possess vessels that outperform those used by criminal elements.’
Complementing the naval expansion, Cabinet has approved a substantial US$1 million allocation for advanced radar systems and communications infrastructure upgrades. This technological enhancement will provide authorities with unprecedented real-time surveillance coverage across the nation’s maritime territory, addressing critical visibility gaps that smugglers have historically exploited.
The integrated approach—combining faster interception craft, extended radar coverage, and modernized communication networks—aims to comprehensively disrupt illegal entry points and reinforce anti-narcotics operations. The new offshore patrol capability will notably extend the Coast Guard’s operational range beyond coastal regions, enabling extended missions, enhanced interdiction capacity, and improved search-and-rescue capabilities in deeper waters.
Additional specifications regarding deployment timelines and operational details are anticipated to emerge as parliamentary budget deliberations continue next week.