$25 billion for polar fleet expansion passed in recent reconciliation bill.
President Donald Trump formally commissioned a new icebreaker for the U.S. Coast Guard last week, the first new cutter in decades. This is the first of many purchases from the $25 billion approved for the Coast Guard’s expansion, passed by the latest reconciliation bill on July 4.
“USCGC Storis is a major win for the American people,” acting Commandant of the Coast Guard Admiral Kevin Lunday stated. “The commissioning of USCGC Storis immediately strengthens our ability to control, secure, and defend the U.S. border around Alaska and maritime approaches in the Arctic. Storis is the first step of a historic investment in the Coast Guard to add critical capacity to our polar icebreaker fleet to protect U.S. sovereignty and counter malign influence throughout the Arctic.”
The Storis, formerly a commercial vessel that supported oil exploration, was modified by the Coast Guard for service in the Arctic. The construction of the first of three new U.S. polar security cutters is expected to be completed in 2030.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Admiral Lunday to be led by the Lord as he oversees the Coast Guard and its operations in the Arctic.
- For President Trump, Secretary Noem, and Secretary Hegseth as they seek to increase national and homeland security.
Sources: Washington Examiner, Stars and Stripes
