After an extensive assessment procedure lasting greater than 2 years, the united state Coast Guard has actually picked Eastern Shipbuilding Group of Panama City, Florida to make and also create approximately 9 Offshore Patrol Cutters.

The agreement asks for the wrapped up layout and also manufacturing of the lead Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) with approximately 8 follow-on vessels. The agreement is valued at $110.29 million and also has a prospective worth of $2.38 billion if all 9 are developed.

The Coast Guard has actually defined the purchase of the overseas patrol cutter as its highest possible financial investment top priority, and also the program is stated to be the biggest vessel purchase agreement in the background of the solution. The Coast Guard prepares to construct an overall of 25 OPCs standing for a complete financial investment of even more $10 billion.

The OPCs are to change the aging solution’s aging fleet of 29 tool endurance cutters, several of which are greater than half a century old.

“The OPC will be the backbone of Coast Guard offshore presence and the manifestation of our at-sea authorities,” stated Commandant of theCoast Guard Adm Paul Zukunft. “It is essential to stopping smugglers at sea, for interdicting undocumented migrants, rescuing mariners, enforcing fisheries laws, responding to disasters and protecting our ports.”

In 2014, Eastern Shipbuilding was amongst 3 shipyards picked to supply initial and also agreement layout for the very first stage of the job. The 2 various other shipyards consisted of Bollinger Shipyards of Lockport, Louisiana and also General Dynamics Bath Iron Works inMaine The 2nd stage (Phase II) was just to be granted to a solitary shipbuilder and also contains the thorough layout and also building and construction agreement.

Eight shipbuilders initially given draft styles for the cutters.

Brian D’Isernia, Eastern CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER and also Joey D’Isernia, Eastern President shared their outright self-confidence in the capacity of ESG to protect this agreement. Joey stated,

“We knew from the beginning, that the U.S. Coast Guard would appreciate our excellent performance record of on time delivery of high quality vessels built by our first-rate craftsmen,” stated Joey D’Isernia, President of Eastern Shipbuilding.

Construction of the very first vessel is anticipated to begin in 2018 with shipment expected for 2021.

“Securing this contract was based on Eastern’s reputation as an industry leader in the construction of mid-range tonnage commercial ships,” Eastern Shipbuilding stated in a declaration. “With a record of delivering 149 out of 150 ships on time and on budget since 2002, Eastern’s performance record is unmatched. Over the past 10 years, Eastern has delivered vessels, ranging from 80 feet to 433 feet in length, many with complexity comparable to the Offshore Patrol Cutter. Efficient, commercially based production processes ensure affordability in the construction of these Coast Guard vessels.”

Eastern Shipbuilding presently utilizes greater than 1,500 workers. Since 2008, it has actually invested greater than $75 million in upgrades and also increasing its shipbuilding centers.

“We believe that the Coast Guard is going to get the best value for its money and the finest vessels to succeed in its mission,” included Brian D’Isernia, Eastern’s chief executive officer.

Update: GAO Study Finds Significant Risks in Coast Guard’s Offshore Patrol Cutter Program