The US Coast Guard has modified its contract with Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) to begin construction of the third offshore patrol cutter (OPC) and to acquire long lead-time material (LLTM) for the fourth OPC.
Contract delivery of the third OPC, to be named Ingham, is scheduled to occur in 2024. The total value of this contracting action is US$356.5 million.
In addition to ordering the construction and supporting deliverables for the third OPC, this contracting action also covers the initial order of long lead-time components and materials necessary to support the future construction of the fourth OPC by acquiring propeller and steering components, marine diesel engines, the ship integrated control system, switchboards, and generators.
The lead and second OPCs are currently in production at ESG's shipyard in Panama City, Florida.
Contract delivery of the lead OPC, USCGC Argus, is scheduled for 2022. Contract delivery of the second OPC, USCGC Chase, is scheduled for 2023.
The coast guard intends to acquire up to 25 OPCs, which will be capable of deploying independently or as part of task groups. Missions will include stopping smugglers at sea, interdicting undocumented migrants, rescuing mariners, enforcing fisheries laws, responding to disasters, and protecting US ports.
