Contracts finalized for USCG’s six Arctic security cutters

July 3, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has finalized two contracts for the construction and delivery of six Arctic security cutters (ASCs).

The contracts are awarded to Bollinger Shipyards Lockport for four ASCs, valued at approximately $2.2 billion, and Finland’s Rauma Marine Constructions for two ASCs, valued at approximately $1.1 billion.

The first vessel under this contract is scheduled to be delivered in 2028, and all six vessels are scheduled to be delivered by 2031.

The first two of three ASC contracts were initially awarded in December 2025. These initial contract awards allowed shipbuilders to begin planning while all final details were negotiated.

US picks industry team for construction of six Arctic security cutters

Vessels

“America’s future in the Arctic demands strength, capability, and resolve,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin.

“I want to thank President Trump for his bold leadership and vision in directing this critical investment that made these icebreakers possible. These cutters will deliver the enduring operational capability our Nation needs to defend our sovereignty, deter adversaries, and safeguard vital resources for the American people.”

“Finalizing these contracts represents decisive action to guarantee American security in the Arctic,” said Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, commandant of the Coast Guard.

“The Arctic Security Cutters will deliver the essential capability to uphold U.S. sovereignty against adversaries’ aggressive economic and military actions in the Arctic. These cutters will ensure the Coast Guard’s ability to control, secure, and defend our northern border and maritime approaches.”

The new cutters will enable the US Coast Guard to control, secure, and defend US Alaskan borders, facilitate maritime commerce vital to economic prosperity and strategic mobility, and respond to crises and contingencies in the region.

The US plans to have an Arctic fleet with eleven ASCs. The program will also onshore icebreaker construction expertise to the United States, strengthening long-term industrial capability and workforce development at American shipyards.