U.S. Coast Guard To Homeport First Arctic Security Cutters In Alaska By 2028

The U.S. Coast Guard has announced that its first two Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs) will be homeported in Alaska, with delivery expected by the end of 2028.

The announcement was made on 16 April as the service begins early preparations for the arrival of the vessels.

Planning is already underway to make sure ports, housing and other support systems are ready in time. The Coast Guard also noted that trained crews and proper facilities will be needed to ensure the icebreakers can operate effectively once they enter service.

Officials stated that fully prepared homeport facilities and trained personnel will be essential to ensure the vessels can operate effectively in one of the world’s most challenging maritime environments.

Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the deployment would enhance the United States’ ability to protect its northern borders, safeguard resources, and deter potential threats.

The programme includes plans for up to 11 Arctic Security Cutters, supported by approximately $3.5 billion in funding allocated under the Fiscal Year 2025 reconciliation legislation. Per reports, the contracts for these vessels may be awarded in 2026.

Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, Commandant of the Coast Guard, said placing the vessels in Alaska would allow the service to respond faster in the Arctic and improve its ability to operate in the region.

He added that the deployment would help secure maritime routes and support U.S. operations in northern waters.

The initiative is also backed by international cooperation. Under an agreement signed in October 2025 between the United States and Finland, up to four of the Arctic Security Cutters will be built by Rauma Marine Constructions Oy in Finland.

Additional vessels will be constructed in U.S. shipyards, including Bollinger Shipyards, along with work involving Davie Defence Inc.

The Coast Guard said working with Finnish shipbuilders will allow the U.S. to use their experience in building icebreakers while also developing its own shipbuilding capacity.

Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, Commandant of the Coast Guard, said positioning the vessels in Alaska would improve the service’s ability to operate across Arctic waters and respond quickly to emerging challenges.

Arctic Security Cutters are expected to become a key part of the U.S. icebreaker fleet. These vessels are designed to operate in harsh ice conditions and will be used for a range of duties, including protecting U.S. waters, supporting shipping, safeguarding resources and responding to emergencies.

Officials said a stronger icebreaker fleet will also help the Coast Guard manage activity in Arctic waters, support trade routes and handle any incidents in the region.

Reference: USCG