US Coast Guard might not have surface assets to patrol the Arctic this summer
The only USCG icebreaker operating in the area, Healy had an electrical fire and had to return to its home port. (Photo: US Coast Guard)
While the service struggles to maintain its cold-temperature fleet, Russia and China have been increasing their presence in the region.
In desperate need of budget and new capabilities to maintain its operations worldwide, the US Coast Guard (USCG) might not be able to protect the Arctic territorial waters over the coming weeks and months from Russian and Chinese ambitions towards the area.
During a recent patrol in the north of Alaska, the Healy medium icebreaker, the service’s single extreme cold temperature asset operating in the region, had an electrical fire and had to return to its home port in Seattle, Washington.
Meanwhile, on 9 August, the USCG announced that the Cutter Alex Haley had detected a Russian Vishnya-class naval
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts]()
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
![Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS]()
Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, DSTA chief Ng Chad-son outlines how the agency is reshaping defence tech development through deeper collaboration with industry partners, from AI-enhanced radar to smart naval munitions.
-
![BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft]()
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
