Construction of Arctic Security Cutters (Presidential Memorandum)

Construction of Arctic Security Cutters (Presidential Memorandum)Purpose: Addresses urgent, growing threats in the Arctic from foreign adversaries, citing risks to U.S. sovereignty, shipping lanes, and energy/mineral/national defense interests. Notes current USCG icebreaking capability is insufficient.Key Directive:Authorizes construction of up to four Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs) in foreign shipyards under 14 U.S.C. 1151(b) and 10 U.S.C. 8679(b) to bridge a critical capability gap.Within 60 days, DHS/USCG (informed by the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort) must submit a phased plan to promote on‑shoring of expertise for future domestic builds.OMB must transmit the memorandum to Congress per statutory requirements.Sunset: Authorization terminates 4 years from issuance unless extended or ended earlier by the President.General Provisions: Does not alter existing legal authorities; implementation subject to law and appropriations; creates no enforceable rights.Signatory: Donald J. Trump