(PASCAGOULA, Miss.) — Bollinger Shipyards has received a $951.6 million fixed-price incentive-firm target (FPIF) contract modification from the U.S. Coast Guard, advancing the detail design and construction phase of the polar security cutter (PSC) program. This milestone underscores Bollinger’s integral role in strengthening America’s maritime presence and operational capabilities in the Arctic.
“Securing this contract modification has truly been a herculean effort and underscores the incredible trust the U.S. government has placed in Bollinger to build and deliver the first heavy polar icebreaker in half a century,” said Ben Bordelon, president and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards. “We wouldn’t be in the solid position we’re in today without the leadership and the tireless efforts of the entire team at Bollinger Mississippi Shipbuilding. Their hard work and dedication have successfully put the PSC program on a strong path forward after a rocky start under the previous, foreign-owned builder. We now look forward to receiving the green light to begin full production.”
Bordelon expressed gratitude for the role of national and state leadership in moving this program forward.
“I am also grateful for the leadership of President Trump and his administration in recognizing the urgent need for American-made icebreakers,” he said. “Because of his foresight and commitment to rebuilding America’s shipbuilding capabilities, this historic project is now moving forward.”
Bordelon also acknowledged Mississippi’s leadership for championing the PSC program and state as a dominant force in shipbuilding.
“I also want to thank Gov. Reeves and Mississippi’s congressional delegation for their leadership and support, especially as we leverage ongoing state and local investments to ensure Bollinger Mississippi remains the premier example of American shipbuilding,” Bordelon said.
“As the Arctic grows as an arena of great power competition, the United States will require far more icebreaking capability from the U.S. Coast Guard to defend our interests in the region. (This) award is a testament to the good work that Bollinger continues to do on the polar security cutter program and the growing urgency with which their platforms are needed to boost our national defense,” said Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “The Mississippi Gulf Coast will not only benefit from even more national security-focused quality jobs and economic development, but it will also continue to be a national player and powerhouse in mission-critical innovation and military capability.”
As Bollinger continues to enhance its operations in Mississippi into world-class shipyards, the company remains committed to making strategic investments to modernize and expand its capabilities. Additionally, the contract modification ensures Bollinger continues to provide its workforce with industry-leading wages throughout the life of the PSC program.
Since acquiring foreign-owned VT Halter in November 2022, Bollinger has made a significant economic impact in the state through targeted investments and workforce expansion. To date, Bollinger has invested $76 million across its Mississippi facilities, including Bollinger Mississippi Shipbuilding, Bollinger Mississippi Repair, Bollinger Gulfport Shipyard, and CHAND Gulf Coast.
The polar security cutter will provide the United States with enhanced operational capability in polar regions, playing a critical role in safeguarding national security, economic stability, and supporting vital maritime and commercial interests.
– Bollinger Shipyards
