Was acquiring the Aiviq polar vessel the right choice for the US Coast Guard?
Coast Guard Cutter Storis icebreaker. (Photo: US Coast Guard)
Previous structural and mechanical issues in the 20-plus year icebreaker might represent challenges for the service.
The recent procurement of the motor vessel Aiviq to plug capability gaps for the US Coast Guard (USCG) could bring additional challenges to the service. Nominated ‘Storis’ by the branch, the cutter has a record of structural and mechanical issues, which raised questions about whether it was the best choice for the service.
Built in 2012 to support oil operations, the 360-foot polar class 3-equivalent icebreaker had problems with its engines, propulsion system and towing shackle systems while operating on the coast of Alaska.
The USCG does not plan to conduct structural improvements to the platform, stressing that the “Storis has
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser]()
RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser
The new Barracuda version has been engineered to perform enhanced subsea and seabed warfare missions.
-
![Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear]()
Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear
The US Navy does not have a precise date for the award of the procurement contract for the third Arleigh Burke-class destroyer despite having the funds to advance with the programme in FY2025.
-
![US Navy may look to foreign suppliers to accelerate shipbuilding programmes]()
US Navy may look to foreign suppliers to accelerate shipbuilding programmes
The US Navy (USN) is currently reassessing its acquisition efforts and seeking ways to reduce the multiple delays across the shipbuilding initiatives.
