US Wants to Build 2 Icebreakers

choi

Doug Cameron, Plans Set for New Icebreakers; Coast Guard aims to acquire two ships expected to cost over $1 billion each.
http://www.wsj.com/articles/coas ... breakers-1452731721

Quote:

"The US Coast Guard on Wednesday announced plans to acquire two new icebreakers expected to cost more than $1 billion apiece to support increased sea traffic and business activity in the Arctic.

"The US has just two working icebreakers, with a third out of commission for the past five years because of engine problems. [Coast Guard Commandant] Adm [Paul] Zukunft said Russia had 42 and was building an additional 14.

"The two [American shipbuilders] that built the Coast Guard’s existing icebreakers have both closed, but Adm Zukunft said industry was confident it could build the new ships.

"The Department of Homeland Security * * * oversees the Coast Guard

"While the focus of the proposed new ships is on the Arctic, Adm Zukunft said they would also support national- security interests in Antarctica.  Some industry analysts said it would be cheaper to find an overseas partner, such as Finland or Canada.

My comment:
(a) There is no need to read the rest.
(b) It is surprising that US does not seem to need icebreakers for the mainland or Alaska. The Boston Harbor does get frozen in winter, which probably lasts weeks (I guess), because I only glance at it not often).