US Coast Guard to invest nearly $11 billion in new capabilities by October
The US Coast Guard is expected to acquire new aircraft, helicopters, vessels and ISR sensors this fiscal year using resources from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
BAE Systems has received a $41.8 million contract to perform routine maintenance and modernisation of the US Navy’s amphibious transport dock ship, USS Anchorage (LPD 23), the company announced on 27 March.
The contract also includes options that, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value to $48.4 million.
The 684ft San Antonio-class vessel will undergo one year of restorative work at BAE Systems’ shipyard in San Diego from July 2019 to July 2020.
Under the contract, BAE Systems will support the installation of upgraded electronic systems and perform other shipboard improvements.
The US Coast Guard is expected to acquire new aircraft, helicopters, vessels and ISR sensors this fiscal year using resources from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Recent developments in France and the UK highlight how autonomous helicopters are becoming central to naval force design as navies seek to integrate crewed and uncrewed systems at sea.
The platforms will be tested in multiple missions to define performance requirements for a coming acquisition programme.
As HII prepares to deliver its latest AI-enabled uncrewed surface vessel later this year, its major UK facility expansion aligns with the UK Royal Navy’s plans for a hybrid fleet.
The UK, the US and Australia have all been working on “extra-large” uncrewed underwater vehicles, but China’s reported development of a significantly larger capability demonstrates the country’s rapid advancement in underwater warfare.
The first Arctic Security Cutter will be built by Rauma Marine Constructions to be deployed in the US Arctic waters.