U.S. Coast Guard Acquires Icebreaker Aiviq
Edison Chouest Completes Sale of Icebreaker Aiviq to the U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has officially acquired the icebreaker Aiviq from Edison Chouest, marking the culmination of an eight-year negotiation process. This significant transaction, which was initially met with skepticism, has now been embraced by the Coast Guard as a crucial addition to its fleet. The acquisition is part of a broader strategy to enhance the Coast Guard’s operational capabilities in the Arctic, especially as the nation prepares for the delivery of the Polar Security Cutter (PSC), its future heavy icebreaker.
Transitioning to the USCGC Storis
Once commissioned, the Aiviq will be renamed USCGC Storis, honoring a historic icebreaker that served in Alaska for many years. The original Storis, known as the “Galloping Ghost of the Alaskan Coast,” had a remarkable history, including a notable transit of the Northwest Passage. The new Storis will not only carry on this legacy but will also serve as a vital asset for the Coast Guard’s operations in the Arctic region.
Admiral Linda Fagan, the commandant of the Coast Guard, emphasized the importance of this acquisition. She stated, “This acquisition is a vital step in increasing our operational presence in the Arctic.” The USCG views the Aiviq as a “bridging strategy” until the PSC is delivered. The icebreaker will undergo an extensive refit before entering service, ensuring it meets the operational requirements of the Coast Guard. This acquisition comes with a price tag of $125 million, which includes reactivation, delivery, spare parts, vessel modifications, and crew training.
The Coast Guard has committed to evaluating the vessel’s condition and identifying any necessary modifications to achieve full operational capability. This proactive approach will ensure that the Storis is ready to support various missions, including search and rescue, environmental protection, and national security operations in the challenging Arctic environment.
Aiviq’s Journey and Future Role
The Aiviq was originally built in 2012 as an icebreaking anchor-handler for Shell’s Arctic offshore drilling program. However, the vessel faced significant challenges early in its operational life. In December 2012, while towing in the Gulf of Alaska, the Aiviq encountered severe seas and lost power due to fuel contamination. An inquiry revealed that seawater had infiltrated the vessel, leading to its eventual grounding and scrapping.
After this incident, the Aiviq remained largely unused for several years. In 2016, two congressmen with ties to Chouest advocated for the Coast Guard to consider purchasing the icebreaker. Initially, the Coast Guard was hesitant, citing concerns about the vessel’s commercial design. However, as progress on the PSC program stalled between 2022 and 2024, the Coast Guard reassessed its position and moved forward with the acquisition.
Once reactivated, the future USCGC Storis will temporarily be stationed at a new pier in Juneau. This strategic location will allow the Coast Guard to enhance its presence in the Arctic, a region of increasing geopolitical importance. The acquisition of the Aiviq signifies a commitment to maintaining U.S. sovereignty and ensuring national security in the Arctic, a region that poses unique challenges and opportunities for the Coast Guard.
