US Coast Guard Begins Construction of First Heavy Polar Icebreaker in Over 50 Years

The U.S. Coast Guard has received approval to commence full-scale construction of the first heavy Polar Security Cutter (PSC) in more than five decades.

“The U.S. Coast Guard/U.S. Navy Integrated Program Office received approval Dec. 19 to begin to build the first polar security cutter (PSC). The PSC is the first heavy polar #icebreaker constructed in the United States in more than five decades.”https://t.co/jd81LDJclo pic.twitter.com/xhEvxi1pSp

— Aker Arctic (@AkerArctic) December 24, 2024

The PSC, a 460-foot-long vessel with a beam of 88 feet and a displacement of 23,200 tons, will be powered by diesel-electric engines. Designed to accommodate 186 personnel, the icebreaker features a large flight deck capable of hosting helicopters like the CH-53 King Stallion or Sikorsky H-60.

Despite initial plans for a 2024 service entry, the cutter’s debut has been delayed to at least 2030.

The approval announcement follows the service’s unveiling of the $125 million motor vessel Aiviq — a 360-foot polar class 3-equivalent icebreaker — to address the Coast Guard’s immediate operational needs.

“This acquisition is a vital step in increasing our operational presence in the Arctic,” said Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Linda Fagan.

The vessel is set to be modified and homeported in Juneau, Alaska, according to reports.

The interim acquisition aligns with the Coast Guard’s strategy to maintain an active presence in the Arctic while the PSC program, which includes plans for three heavy icebreakers, progresses.

The Coast Guard’s polar icebreaker fleet currently includes the heavy icebreaker Polar Star (commissioned in 1976) and the medium icebreaker Healy (commissioned in 1999). Both vessels are aging, with the Polar Star in particular nearing the end of its operational lifespan.

The Coast Guard has identified the need for eight to nine polar icebreakers to meet its mission requirements in the rapidly changing polar regions. These missions include maintaining sovereignty, supporting scientific research, ensuring maritime safety, and responding to emergencies.