Bollinger Starts Construction of US Coast Guard’s First Modern Polar Cutter
The US Coast Guard is taking significant steps to enhance its capabilities in polar regions. Bollinger Shipyards has officially started the construction of the first vessel under the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) program. This initiative aims to replace the aging fleet of icebreakers that have been crucial for national security, maritime operations, and economic activities in the Arctic and Antarctic. The new vessels are expected to be operational by the 2030s, marking a pivotal shift in the Coast Guard’s ability to operate in extreme conditions.
The assembly of the first PSC is taking place at Bollinger’s facility in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This marks a historic moment, as it is the first heavy polar icebreaker to be developed in the United States in over 50 years. The construction of the lead cutter also paves the way for the development of eight prototype fabrication assessment units. These units will help refine construction techniques and enhance the skills of the shipbuilder’s workforce, preparing them for a broader production phase.
USCGC Polar Sentinel: The First of Its Kind
The inaugural vessel of the PSC program will be named USCGC Polar Sentinel. This modern icebreaker will be approximately 460 feet (140 meters) long and will feature a powerful diesel-electric engine capable of producing 45,200 horsepower. This engine will allow the Polar Sentinel to navigate through ice up to 8 feet (2 meters) thick, ensuring it can operate effectively in the harshest conditions.
The Polar Sentinel is designed to accommodate over 180 personnel and can sustain missions for up to 90 days. This endurance is crucial for operations in remote polar regions. The ship will also be equipped with advanced weaponry, including 30-millimeter autocannons and .50-caliber heavy machine guns, enhancing its defensive capabilities. Additionally, it will feature a hangar and a dedicated landing pad for a maritime helicopter, further expanding its operational versatility. The Polar Sentinel represents a significant advancement in the Coast Guard’s icebreaking capabilities and will play a vital role in safeguarding U.S. interests in polar waters.
Temporary Icebreaker: MV Aiviq to Support Operations
In a strategic move, the US Coast Guard announced in November the acquisition of a temporary icebreaker, the MV Aiviq. This vessel will help meet operational requirements in polar regions until the new PSC fleet is fully operational by the end of the decade. The MV Aiviq measures 360 feet (110 meters) and was previously employed for oil and towing operations by Offshore Service Vessels.
The decision to procure the MV Aiviq underscores the urgency of maintaining a robust presence in polar waters. As the Arctic and Antarctic regions become increasingly important for national security and economic interests, having a reliable icebreaker is essential. The MV Aiviq will serve as a critical asset, ensuring that the Coast Guard can continue its vital missions in these challenging environments. This acquisition is a temporary but necessary measure as the Coast Guard prepares for the arrival of its new fleet of Polar Security Cutters, which will significantly enhance its operational capabilities in the years to come.
