Coast Guard Acquisitions: Status of Coast Guard's Heavy Polar Icebreaker Acquisition

摘要

Since 1965, U.S. Coast Guard has been responsible for providing polar icebreaking capability for the United States. The Coast Guard has two active polar icebreakers, including one heavy polar icebreaker that is nearing the end of its expected service life. To maintain its polar icebreaking capability, the Coast Guard is seeking to acquire three new heavy polar icebreakers. The Coast Guard established the heavy polar icebreaker acquisition program in 2012 and anticipates delivery of the lead ship in 2023. In 2016, the Coast Guard established an integrated program office with the Navy to leverage the Navy's shipbuilding expertise for acquiring the icebreakers.1 The Coast Guard, as a component within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is generally required to follow DHS's acquisition policies.