American duo forms alliance to speed up US Arctic icebreaking capabilities

Two American shipbuilders—Bollinger Shipyards and Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO)—have joined forces to form a new partnership, called the United Shipbuilding Alliance (USA), to accelerate US Arctic icebreaking capabilities.

This partnership is designed to offer a fully integrated solution to expedited design, construction, and delivery of next-generation icebreakers to directly meet the urgent Arctic operational needs.

USA recently responded to the U.S. Coast Guard’s request for information (RFI) outlining the utilization of a commercial vessel for national security purposes, an acquisition process that spans 33 months from contract award to delivery.

By using proven commercial shipbuilding methods, the alliance believes it can work more efficiently, shift production between multiple shipyards if needed, and keep projects on time and within budget.

“If the mission demands speed, efficiency, and innovation, the answer is clear, let American industry lead,” said Ben Bordelon, President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards.

“The formation of the United Shipbuilding Alliance comes at a pivotal moment and answers President Trump’s call to action in making American Shipbuilding Great Again. I am excited by President Trump’s efforts to reinvigorate America’s shipyards. Through his leadership, he has reignited demand, sparked competition, and challenged American industry to rise to the occasion with urgency and creativity.”

“The creation of the United Shipbuilding Alliance represents a significant evolution in America’s capacity to rapidly address urgent Arctic operational requirements,” said Gary Chouest, President and CEO of Edison Chouest Offshore.

“Our collaboration underscores a dedicated commitment to ensuring America retains a decisive edge in maritime capabilities and enhancing national security within the increasingly strategic Arctic region.”

Between the two American companies, they have built and delivered four icebreakers in the last three decades, and Bollinger is currently constructing the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) program for the U.S. Coast Guard.

Last week, Bollinger announced it has received approval from the U.S. Coast Guard to begin full production activities on the PSC program, which will see Bollinger delivering the nation’s first heavy polar icebreaker in nearly fifty years.