President Donald J. Trump's promise to expand the Nation's Arctic fleet is to be fulfilled by the ASC program, which will deliver 11 ASCs.

Finalizing these contracts represents decisive action to guarantee American security in the Arctic

The first Rauma-built vessel is expected in 2028, and the first US-built cutter is due in 2029. All six vessels are scheduled for delivery by 2031. 

WASHINGTON –The US Coast Guard has announced the finalization of two contracts for the construction and delivery of six Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs). America's position in the Arctic is set to be strengthened by these brand-new polar icebreakers. Bollinger Shipyards Lockport, L.L.C. of Lockport, Louisiana, was awarded four ASCs, valued at approximately $2.2 billion, and Rauma Marine Constructions Oy of Rauma, Finland, was awarded two ASCs, valued at approximately $1.1 billion. The first vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2028, with all six expected to be delivered by 2031

The first Rauma-built vessel expected in 2028 

It should be noted that the Coast Guard's contracts with Bollinger Shipyards, Lockport, LLC, and Rauma Marine Constructions Oy were initially awarded in December 2025. These were the first two of three ASC contracts to be awarded. While all final details were being negotiated, shipbuilders were able to start planning thanks to these initial contract awards, with the first Rauma-built vessel expected in 2028 and the first US-built cutter due in 2029. All six vessels are scheduled for delivery by 2031. 

America’s future in the Arctic 

“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.”

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Guarantee American security in the Arctic

“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 ASC program 

The ASC program is considered to be a cornerstone of the Coast Guard's strategy to defend U.S. sovereignty, secure critical shipping lanes, protect energy and mineral resources, and counter adversary presence in the Arctic. The Coast Guard's new cutters will help it to control, secure, and defend the U.S. Alaskan border, facilitate vital maritime commerce (which is crucial for economic prosperity and strategic mobility), and respond to crises and contingencies in the region. 

The Coast Guard's commitment to modernizing acquisition,

The Coast Guard has already ordered over $10 billion worth of new assets and capabilities using the $25 billion provided by the historic Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Reconciliation, and has put an additional $3 billion towards critical depot maintenance and shore facilities. The Coast Guard's commitment to modernizing acquisition, delivering next-generation technology, restoring readiness and revitalizing American shipbuilding is demonstrated by this rapid investment

President Donald J. Trump's promise 

President Donald J. Trump's promise to expand the Nation's Arctic fleet is to be fulfilled by the ASC program, which will deliver 11 ASCs. The programme will also bring icebreaker construction expertise back to the United States, thereby strengthening the country's long-term industrial capabilities and workforce development in American shipyards.

# Donald J. Trump# ASC program #US Coast Guard #Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs) # Bollinger Shipyards #Rauma Marine #Arctic