Bollinger Shipyards has been awarded a significant $951 million contract modification by the U.S. Coast Guard. The polar security cutter program (PSC) aims to advance the construction of the first heavy polar icebreaker in over fifty years. This investment represents a pivotal moment for the Pascagoula-based shipbuilder and enhances the United States’ operational capabilities in polar regions.
Canada also announced similar new construction projects.
Key Takeaways of the Polar Security Cutter Project
- Contract Value: $951 million modification to the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) program.
- Purpose: To bolster U.S. Coast Guard capabilities in polar regions.
- Economic Impact: Significant job creation and economic development in Mississippi.
- Workforce Growth: Over 61% increase in Bollinger’s Mississippi workforce since 2022.
Contract Details of Coastal Icebreaker
The Department of Homeland Security’s decision to modify the existing contract for the Polar Security Cutter program underscores confidence in Bollinger Shipyards. The Fixed-Price-Incentive-Firm Target (FPIF) modification will facilitate the PSC’s Detail Design and Construction phase, essential for strengthening the U.S. Coast Guard’s presence in the Arctic.
Ben Bordelon, President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, expressed pride in this achievement, crediting the team’s hard work in overcoming initial challenges under previous management. He emphasized the importance for effective U.S. operations in increasingly contested polar regions.
Political Support of the Pollar Icebreaker Project
The announcement garnered enthusiasm from Mississippi’s U.S. Senators, Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith:
- Senator Wicker: As Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, he acknowledged the growing need for icebreaking capabilities in the Arctic’s evolving geopolitical landscape. He remarked, “Today’s award is a testament to the good work that Bollinger continues to do on the Polar Security Cutter program.”
- Senator Hyde-Smith: She highlighted Mississippi’s status as a premier shipbuilding destination, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Gulf Coast for national defense and commercial maritime strength.
Economic Impact – Bollinger Shipyards
Since acquiring VT Halter in November 2022, Bollinger Shipyards has made substantial investments exceeding $76 million across various Mississippi facilities, including:
- Bollinger Mississippi Shipbuilding
- Bollinger Mississippi Repair
- Bollinger Gulfport Shipyard
- CHAND Gulf Coast
These investments have enhanced shipbuilding capabilities and led to over a 61% increase in the workforce since 2022, allowing Bollinger to provide competitive wages to employees throughout the PSC program’s duration.
Bollinger Shipyards and Polar Security Cutter program.
The $951 million contract modification for the Polar Security Cutter program marks a crucial advancement in enhancing the U.S. Coast Guard’s polar capabilities. With strong political backing and a commitment to workforce development, Bollinger Shipyards is positioned to play a vital role in national defense and economic growth in Mississippi. As the Arctic’s significance grows, the need for advanced icebreaking capabilities will continue to escalate, making this contract a significant milestone for both Bollinger and the U.S. Coast Guard.
