The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) announced that two Arctic Security Cutters will be homeported in Alaska by the end of 2028.
“Homeporting these two Arctic Security Cutters in Alaska is a decisive step forward in securing America’s Arctic frontier,” Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin said in a statement. “I want to thank President Trump for his bold leadership and vision in directing this critical investment, as well as Senator Sullivan and the entire Alaskan Congressional delegation for championing the funding that made these icebreakers possible. These vessels will deliver the enduring operational presence our nation needs to protect sovereignty, deter foreign adversaries, and safeguard vital resources for the American people..”
“Homeporting Arctic Security Cutters in Alaska underscores the United States’ leadership as a maritime power in the Arctic,” stated Adm. Kevin E. Lunday, commandant of the Coast Guard. “By strategically positioning these state-of-the-art icebreakers in Alaska, the Coast Guard will maximize our ability to defend our northern border and approaches, while reinforcing America’s maritime dominance in a crucial region of strategic importance.”
The development aligns with the historic expansion of the icebreaker vessels. In December, the Coast Guard announced the award of two contracts to construct up to six Arctic Security Cutters (ASC) icebreakers as part of a security initiative. Contracts were awarded to Rauma Marine Constructions Oy of Rauma, Finland, and Bollinger Shipyards Lockport, L.L.C. of Lockport, Louisiana.
Last year, the Trump administration commissioned the polar icebreaker USCGC Storis, the nation’s first polar icebreaker in 25 years and marked the expansion of the U.S.’s operational presence in the Arctic region.
