Image: Bollinger Shipyards
Bollinger Shipyards has received the go-ahead from the U.S. Coast Guard to commence full production of the much-anticipated Polar Security Cutter (PSC), marking a critical step forward for America’s presence in the Arctic.
The approval comes on the heels of a substantial $951.6 million contract modification under a Fixed-Price-Incentive-Firm Target (FPIF) agreement. This shift from planning to production signals a deeper investment in America’s maritime infrastructure, especially at a time when global interest in the polar regions is heating up.
Ben Bordelon, President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, called the green light a “historic achievement,” emphasizing that it’s the first time in nearly five decades the U.S. is building a heavy polar icebreaker. “Our team at Bollinger Mississippi Shipbuilding has worked tirelessly to put the PSC program on a solid path forward,” said Bordelon. “This is about building a vital national security asset with American hands.”
The project is more than just steel and propulsion systems—it’s proving to be a major economic driver for Mississippi. Since Bollinger acquired VT Halter from Singapore-based ST Engineering in November 2022, it has invested over $76 million into its local operations. That infusion of capital hasn’t just improved facilities; it’s brought jobs. The company has increased its workforce in Mississippi by over 61%, with production roles jumping 178%.
A lot of that growth can be traced back to Bollinger’s Bootcamp workforce development program. These initiatives aim to close the skills gap and bring new life to American shipbuilding with a homegrown talent pipeline. “We’re investing in the next generation of skilled American workers,” Bordelon added, underscoring that workforce development is central to both business growth and national capability.
The Polar Security Cutter itself is no small feat. Designed to operate in the harshest Arctic and Antarctic conditions, it will enhance the U.S.’s strategic capabilities in regions where ice isn’t the only thing getting thicker. From national security to economic interests and scientific missions, the vessel will be critical for a range of operations.
The first of these massive ships is expected to be completed by May 2030. Until then, eyes will be on Bollinger Shipyards and its Mississippi team as they push forward with what could be one of the most significant builds in U.S. maritime history.
Source:Bollinger Shipyards
