The United States Coast Guard has launched the procurement process for up to seven new Homeland Security Cutter-Light (HSC-L) vessels as part of its effort to modernize an ageing domestic icebreaking fleet. The new vessels will replace light icebreaking tugs that have been in service since the 1960s and will combine icebreaking and aids-to-navigation functions to support year-round access to ports and waterways. Designed to operate in challenging winter conditions across regions including New England and the Great Lakes, the cutters will help maintain safe navigation and support commercial and recreational marine traffic.
