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Committee hears timelines for polar security cutters, calls for industrial‑base support
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Summary
Lawmakers pressed Admiral Allen on icebreaker procurement schedules and U.S. industrial capacity; the Coast Guard said polar security cutter design is nearly complete with the first heavy cutter expected in 2030 and committed to periodic acquisitions reporting and industrial‑base improvements.
Representative Guillermo asked for a detailed status of icebreaker programs and the industrial base. Admiral Allen said the Polar Security Cutter program is nearing completion of design and that the first heavy polar security cutter is expected in 2030; he described plans for multipurpose icebreakers and multipurpose polar designs with initial construction overseas and onshoring thereafter.
"They are being built at Bollinger, Mississippi ... We are at almost 99% on design ... We're expecting that first one in 2030," Admiral Allen said, describing progress and an intent to obligate funds for follow‑on cutters.
Allen said the Coast Guard is working with foreign partners and U.S. yards to accelerate delivery: two MPIs (multipurpose icebreakers) are planned for 2028, and a sequence of multipurpose polar vessels will arrive in the late 2020s and early 2030s. He acknowledged gaps in the U.S. industrial base to build certain ship types and said the service is pursuing an onshoring approach that begins with partner yards and then brings work to U.S. yards.
Why it matters: Icebreaker capability affects Arctic operations, national presence and logistics in polar regions. Members asked for schedules, cost breakdowns and a written acquisition plan; Representative Guillermo requested periodic written reports on schedule, specific issues and money associated with each icebreaker.
What's next: Admiral Allen committed to resume quarterly acquisition updates for the committee and to provide written reports on schedules, costs and industrial‑base constraints. Members asked the chair to consider periodic reporting requirements to monitor progress.
