(WASHINGTON) — The U.S. Coast Guard announced Wednesday it has completed the award of contracts for 11 Arctic security cutters, fulfilling President Trump’s directive to rapidly expand America’s icebreaker fleet. The latest award is for construction of up to five Arctic security cutters, bringing the president’s initial order to completion and marking a historic milestone in U.S. Arctic capability.
The contract awarded Wednesday builds on previous awards announced Dec. 29. Together, these 11 cutters will form the backbone of a revitalized U.S. icebreaker fleet, protecting U.S. sovereignty in the Arctic.
“America has been an Arctic nation for over 150 years, and we’re finally acting like it under President Trump. Our adversaries continue to look to grow their presence in the Arctic, equipping the Coast Guard with Arctic security cutters will help reassert American maritime dominance there,” said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Revitalizing the U.S. Coast Guard’s icebreaking capabilities is crucial for our security and prosperity, and today’s announcement is an important step in that direction.”
Davie Defense will construct two Arctic security cutters at Helsinki Shipyard in Finland and three domestically. The cutters will defend U.S. sovereignty, secure critical shipping lanes, protect energy and mineral resources, and counter foreign malign influence in the Arctic region.
“Awarding these contracts ensures the United States maintains its leadership as a maritime power in the Arctic,” said Adm. Kevin Lunday, commandant of the Coast Guard. “Accelerating construction of these cutters will enable the Coast Guard to defend our northern border and approaches, while strengthening domestic shipbuilding and reinforcing the nation’s industrial base.”
Delivery of the first Arctic security cutter is expected in early 2028.
– U.S. Coast Guard
