Edison Chouest Offshore, Bollinger launch United Shipbuilding Alliance (USA)

Bollinger Shipyards of Lockport, Louisiana, and Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) of Cut Off, Louisiana, have announced the formation of a strategic partnership named the United Shipbuilding Alliance (USA). This collaboration seeks to provide an integrated solution for the rapid design, construction, and delivery of next-generation icebreakers, addressing urgent operational needs in the Arctic. The partnership comes in response to a recent U.S. Coast Guard request for information regarding icebreaking vessels capable of supporting national security.

Streamlined Approach to Arctic Operations

The United Shipbuilding Alliance aims to revolutionize the construction of icebreakers by utilizing commercial vessel construction methods. This approach has already proven effective, as demonstrated by the recent acquisition of the USCGC Storis, an American-built icebreaker designed for Arctic conditions. Delivered in under three years, the Storis showcases the potential for expedited production timelines in meeting national security requirements.

According to the alliance’s statement, the proposed commercial acquisition method could save U.S. taxpayers over 40% by eliminating unnecessary program complexities and bureaucratic hurdles. The streamlined process allows for agile execution and smart vendor selection, ensuring that projects remain on schedule and within budget. In contrast, traditional government acquisition processes often face delays and increased costs due to regulatory constraints.

Ben Bordelon, president and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, emphasized the importance of American industry in meeting urgent national needs. He stated, “If the mission demands speed, efficiency, and innovation, the answer is clear, let American industry lead.” This sentiment reflects the alliance’s commitment to enhancing the United States’ maritime capabilities in the Arctic region.

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Leveraging Expertise and Resources

The United Shipbuilding Alliance combines the extensive experience of Bollinger and ECO, which together boast over 144 years in maritime construction. With a workforce of more than 6,000 skilled American workers across 33 operational shipyards and fabrication facilities, the alliance is well-equipped to rapidly design and deliver icebreakers for both commercial and government clients. In the past three decades, the two companies have successfully built and delivered four icebreakers, with Bollinger currently working on the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) program for the U.S. Coast Guard.

In late 2022, Bollinger took over the PSC project, which had previously faced significant financial challenges. The company has since received approval from the U.S. Coast Guard to commence full production activities on the program. The alliance aims to ensure that any vessel transporting U.S. servicemembers is built domestically, reinforcing the importance of American manufacturing in national security.

The U.S. Government has recognized the need to enhance its Arctic operational capabilities, and the United Shipbuilding Alliance is poised to address this demand. By leveraging advanced maritime engineering and innovative construction techniques, the alliance seeks to expedite vessel production while achieving substantial cost efficiencies, ultimately benefiting both government operations and taxpayers.