US Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star’s 50-year service highlights capability gaps in Antarctica
Polar Star breaks ice in the Ross Sea during Operation Deep Freeze 2026. (Photo: US Coast Guard)
Delays in the construction of the Polar Security Cutter – the future substitute for the Polar Star – are likely to prolong the ageing icebreaker’s service time even more, putting the USCG in a risky position.
The US Coast Guard (USCG) Polar Star heavy icebreaker reached the milestone of 50 years in operation this month. Commissioned in January 1976, the vessel has already exceeded its expected service life by nearly two decades, but it remains unclear when the cutter will be phased out.
The USCG has been struggling to progress with its shipbuilding programmes, with the construction schedule for the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) – which is set to replace the Polar Star – recording multiple issues and postponements. Initially planned for 2024, the delivery of the first PSC is now expected in 2028.
These delays in building
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![HMS Anson’s milestone stay in Australia cut short during AUKUS deployment]()
HMS Anson’s milestone stay in Australia cut short during AUKUS deployment
The Astute-class submarine’s visit to Australia was the first time maintenance activity on a UK Royal Navy nuclear submarine had been carried out in the country.
-
![US Pentagon claims to have severely damaged Iranian capabilities, promises to increase attacks]()
US Pentagon claims to have severely damaged Iranian capabilities, promises to increase attacks
US military authorities claim to have sunk 20 Iranian vessels and destroyed Tehran’s Air Force, with the Pentagon making plans to send additional assets to the region.
-
![Greece’s newly commissioned FDI frigate deployed to Cyprus]()
Greece’s newly commissioned FDI frigate deployed to Cyprus
The recent naval modernisation efforts by the Hellenic Navy have been bolstered by the acquisition of advanced Naval Group frigates, the first of which was delivered in December 2025 and is now playing a crucial role in the latest Middle East conflict.
