The US Coast Guard has entered the final stage of a life extension effort for its only operational heavy-class icebreaker, the USCGC Polar Star (WAGB-10).
The vessel is now at Mare Island Dry Dock in Vallejo, California, where it will undergo an extensive overhaul to extend its service life until next-generation cutter replacements arrive in the 2030s.
As the program’s final phase, the work in Vallejo will focus on refurbishing the ship’s heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems, upgrading navigation equipment, and replacing main propulsion and auxiliary systems.
The recapitalization process will enhance the icebreaker’s accommodations, safety, and navigational capabilities during extended deployments.
This summer, a team from Baltimore will also be on site to complete additional repairs to the cutter’s sewage pumps and tank level indicators.
“The efforts of the joint In-Service Vessel Sustainment Program (ISVS) and the Long Range Enforcer Product Line team align with one of the key goals of Force Design 2028, to rapidly deliver the assets the service needs to fulfill its commitment to the American people,” ISVS Program Manager Kenneth King stated.
‘This phase represents a significant milestone for both Polar Star and the ISVS program, as our dedicated professionals ensure Polar Star meets its multifaceted missions in the polar regions until the arrival of the polar security cutter fleet.”
The Polar Star Icebreaker
The USCGC Polar Star measures 399 feet (122 meters) in length and has a beam of 84 feet (26 meters).
It is powered by six diesel engines, each with 3,000 horsepower, and three gas turbines, each producing 25,000 horsepower.
The vessel can carry more than 120 personnel and is equipped to support salvage operations, scientific research, and icebreaking through 21-foot (6-meter) thick ice.
The cutter can reach speeds of 18 knots (21 miles/33 kilometers per hour) in open water and around 3 knots (3 miles/6 kilometers per hour) through ice. Its operational range is 16,000 nautical miles (18,412 miles/29,631 kilometers).
