Bollinger and Edison Chouest Launch United Shipbuilding Alliance to Deliver Next-Gen Arctic Icebreakers
Bollinger Shipyards and Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) have launched the United Shipbuilding Alliance (USA), a new industry initiative aimed at delivering next-generation Arctic icebreakers faster and more cost-effectively. The partnership is a direct response to the U.S. Coast Guard’s April 2025 RFI for Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs).
Strategic Partnership to Fast-Track U.S. Arctic Operational Readiness
Using a proven commercial acquisition model, USA proposes to deliver fully capable icebreaking vessels in just 33 months from contract award — a significant reduction in lead time compared to traditional government procurement cycles.
Responding to Coast Guard’s Arctic Security Cutter RFI with Commercial Agility
The strategy draws from the successful transformation of the USCGC STORIS, which was delivered in under three years. The model offers more than 40% in cost savings by streamlining vendor selection, reducing regulatory friction, and enabling work to be distributed across multiple U.S. shipyards.
40% Cost Savings and Agile Execution Highlight Benefits of Commercial Acquisition
- Delivery in 33 months vs traditional multi-year delays
- Eliminates redundant reporting and source selection mandates
- Leverages 6,000+ skilled workers across 33 facilities
- Builds on 144 combined years of U.S. shipbuilding experience
Preserving U.S. Naval Industrial Base with American-Built Vessels
“The answer is clear—let American industry lead,” said Ben Bordelon, President & CEO of Bollinger Shipyards. “The United Shipbuilding Alliance is proof that American industry can and will deliver faster, better, and more cost-effectively by aligning commercial innovation with national security priorities.”
USA’s Massive Capacity: 6,000 Workers, 33 Shipyards, 144 Years of Expertise
USA combines the full strength of Bollinger’s and ECO’s infrastructure to address national needs with urgency. The companies have collectively delivered four icebreakers and are currently managing the U.S. Coast Guard’s Polar Security Cutter (PSC) program. Bollinger, which took over the troubled PSC contract in 2022, recently received U.S. Coast Guard approval to begin full production.
Conclusion: Aligning Innovation, Speed, and Security for Arctic Dominance
With geopolitical interest in the Arctic at an all-time high, the United Shipbuilding Alliance offers the U.S. a unique industrial solution to close the polar capability gap. Through American-built vessels, commercial agility, and industrial collaboration, USA is positioned to redefine how quickly — and affordably — America can project strength in the polar regions.