Feb. 12, 2026 —
Artistic rendering courtesy of Davie Defense.
The Coast Guard awarded a contract Feb. 10 for construction of up to five arctic security cutters (ASCs), increasing the number of ASCs on contract to 11. This latest action brings the program to full strength and marks a historic milestone in U.S. Arctic capability while fulfilling President Trump’s directive to rapidly expand America’s icebreaker fleet.
Davie Defense Inc. will manufacture two ASCs at the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland; the remaining three will be built domestically. This contract award, along with awards announced in December 2025, achieves objectives to accelerate construction of 11 ASCs that will form the backbone of a revitalized U.S. icebreaker fleet. Acquisition of ASCs supports the Coast Guard’s modernization under Force Design 2028, transforming the service into a more agile, capable and responsive fighting force.
“Awarding these contracts ensures the United States maintains its leadership as a maritime power in the Arctic,” said Adm. Kevin E. Lunday, commandant of the Coast Guard. “Accelerating construction of these cutters will enable the Coast Guard to defend our northern border and approaches, while strengthening domestic shipbuilding and reinforcing the nation’s industrial base.”
The ASCs will defend U.S. sovereignty, secure critical shipping lanes, protect energy and mineral resources and counter foreign malign influence in the Arctic region. A robust icebreaker fleet will enable the Coast Guard to control, secure and defend U.S. Alaskan borders and Arctic maritime approaches, facilitate maritime commerce vital to economic prosperity and strategic mobility, and respond to crises and contingencies in the region.
Delivery of the first arctic security cutter is expected in 2028.