Construction Starts on First Arctic Security Cutter in Finland, Marking Major Expansion of U.S. Icebreaking Fleet

Construction of the first Arctic Security Cutter (ASC) for the U.S. Coast Guard began on Tuesday at Sata Shipbuilding’s yard in Pori, Finland, marking the start of a shipbuilding program that could ultimately transform the service into one of the world’s most capable Arctic maritime forces.

The vessel is the first of 11 Arctic Security Cutters authorized and contracted by the United States under two separate procurement programs led by Bollinger Shipyards and Canada’s Davie.

The U.S. Coast Guard has contracted Bollinger to deliver six Arctic Security Cutters, while Davie has been selected to build five vessels, including two through its