Bollinger Shipyards Secures $951.6 Million Contract For Polar Security Cutter Program

By
Mfame Editor
-
27

Bollinger Shipyards has received a $951.6 million Fixed-Price-Incentive-Firm Target (FPIF) contract modification from the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to advance the Detail Design and Construction phase of the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) Program. This milestone strengthens the U.S. maritime presence in the Arctic and bolsters national security capabilities.

Key Highlights of the Contract

  • First U.S. Heavy Polar Icebreaker in 50 Years

    • Bollinger is building the first heavy polar icebreaker in half a century.

    • This project marks a turnaround from the previous foreign-owned builder, ensuring American expertise leads the initiative.

  • Expansion of U.S. Shipbuilding Capabilities

    • Bollinger has invested $76 million across its Mississippi facilities.

    • Since acquiring VT Halter in 2022, Bollinger has:

      • Increased workforce by 61% across Mississippi.

      • Expanded production roles at Bollinger Mississippi Shipbuilding (BMS) by 178%.

  • Economic & National Security Impact

    • The program supports high-paying, skilled jobs across multiple states, including Mississippi, Massachusetts, Illinois, Virginia, Georgia, and Louisiana.

    • Full-scale production will create further job growth and workforce development opportunities.

Leadership and Government Support

  • Ben Bordelon, President & CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, highlighted the trust placed in Bollinger, stating:
    “We are honored to lead this historic project, ensuring the U.S. Coast Guard has the icebreaking capability required to defend national interests in the Arctic.”

  • Mississippi’s Government & Congressional Leaders emphasized the strategic importance of the program:

    • Governor Tate Reeves: “Mississippi is a national leader in shipbuilding and innovation. This project strengthens our economy and national security.”

    • Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS): “The U.S. needs greater icebreaking capability for Arctic security. This contract will further Mississippi’s role in national defense.”

Advancing U.S. Arctic Capabilities

  • The Polar Security Cutter is essential for maritime operations in polar regions, ensuring:

    • National security enforcement

    • Economic stability through secure trade routes

    • Support for maritime and commercial interests

  • Completion of the first PSC is expected by May 2030, with production ramping up in the coming years.

Through strategic investment and workforce expansion, Bollinger Shipyards is poised to strengthen the U.S. Coast Guard’s Arctic capabilities while solidifying Mississippi’s leadership in American shipbuilding.

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Source: Bollinger