Believing that U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking is somehow 'back on track' would be a mistake. The U.S. should look to proven allied shipbuilders to meet its short- and medium-term strategic needs.
Again, Peter, suggesting foreign shipyards build USCG icebreakers...be VERY careful what you wish for! If it was simply building a good icebreaker that could get to McMurdo station, that would be one thing. The Polar Security Cutter is something quite different.
Hi Lance. A few things. First, what I wish for is more ships for the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy. However we can get them, we need them ten years ago. We need to move this forward NOW. No more waiting.
Second, an uncomfortable truth is that foreign procurement bypasses a lot of the U.S. Government bureaucracy that comes with U.S. acquisitions. It may be unfair, but it's how it works (and needs to be changed). We just can't wait that long.
Third- since PSC hull one was prioritized for McMurdo, why go through all the trouble of building this monstrosity? Why not meet the icebreaking needs of the U.S. Government with a cost-effective commercial program while building a true ice-capable warship?
Lastly, I'd love to watch DOGE take on U.S. shipbuilding programs via livestream. I bet you'd be there with me; I'd even bring the popcorn.
Again, Peter, suggesting foreign shipyards build USCG icebreakers...be VERY careful what you wish for! If it was simply building a good icebreaker that could get to McMurdo station, that would be one thing. The Polar Security Cutter is something quite different.
Hi Lance. A few things. First, what I wish for is more ships for the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy. However we can get them, we need them ten years ago. We need to move this forward NOW. No more waiting.
Second, an uncomfortable truth is that foreign procurement bypasses a lot of the U.S. Government bureaucracy that comes with U.S. acquisitions. It may be unfair, but it's how it works (and needs to be changed). We just can't wait that long.
Third- since PSC hull one was prioritized for McMurdo, why go through all the trouble of building this monstrosity? Why not meet the icebreaking needs of the U.S. Government with a cost-effective commercial program while building a true ice-capable warship?
Lastly, I'd love to watch DOGE take on U.S. shipbuilding programs via livestream. I bet you'd be there with me; I'd even bring the popcorn.