President Trump today issued a Presidential Memorandum on “Safeguarding U.S. National Interests in the Arctic and Antarctic Regions.” Citing the need for a “ready, capable, and available fleet” of polar icebreakers that are ready for deployment by FY 2029, the Memorandum directs the development and execution of a polar security icebreaking fleet acquisition program.
Specific actions include a Homeland Security Dept.-led review of requirements for the program, a study of the comparative operational fiscal benefits and risks of a fleet mix that consists of at least 3 heavy polar-class security cutters, the Secretary of State’s identification of viable polar security icebreaker leasing operations provided by partner nations as a near- to mid-term strategy, and the Secretary of Defense’s continued provision of technical and programmatic support to the Coast Guard for the acquisition, outfitting, and operations of all classes of polar security cutters.