Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) has been awarded a purchase order to provide motor-operated valves (MOVs) through Hunt Valve for the United States Coast Guard’s (USCG) Polar Sentinel (WMSP-21). The cutter is the first of three multi-mission vessels that will comprise the Polar Security Cutter program, which is intended to supplement the USCG’s missions in the Arctic as well as Operation Deep Freeze in the Antarctic.
Vessels for the Polar Security Cutter program are being constructed at the Bollinger Mississippi Shipyard in Pascagoula, Miss. All three vessels will be homeported in Seattle. Wash.
Currently, the USCG icebreaker fleet consists of the aging USCGC Polar Star heavy polar icebreaker and the USCGC Healy medium icebreaker.
The USCG ensures continued access to the world’s waterways for the nation’s economic, commercial maritime, and national security needs. The icebreaking capabilities of polar security cutters allow the USCG to maintain readiness in the Arctic and Antarctic regions and provide logistical support that facilitates the movement of goods and personnel necessary for scientific research, commerce, national security activities, and maritime safety.
