Construction Of Arctic Security Cutters
Summary
This Presidential Memorandum directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to construct up to four Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs) abroad. This action is justified by the urgent and growing threat in the Arctic region due to strategic competition and economic encroachment by foreign adversaries. The memo aims to address the insufficient capacity of the United States Coast Guard's current fleet to meet operational demands.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be the construction of ASCs in foreign shipyards to quickly address the capability gap. A plan will be developed to phase in the on-shoring of expertise for future domestic construction. The authorization will terminate in four years unless extended.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthened national security presence in the Arctic region.
- Protection of U.S. sovereignty and interests in the Arctic.
- Enhanced capability to safeguard critical shipping lanes.
- Potential for future domestic job creation through technology transfer.
- Addresses a critical capability gap in the Coast Guard's fleet.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of shipbuilding jobs in the United States in the short term.
- Dependence on foreign shipyards for critical national security assets.
- Risk of intellectual property transfer to foreign entities.
- Possible delays or cost overruns associated with foreign construction.
- May face political opposition due to the use of foreign shipyards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The President's authority is cited as being vested by the Constitution and laws of the United States. The action aligns with the constitutional mandate to "provide for the common defence" (Preamble). The memorandum references specific US Code sections (14 U.S.C. 1151(b) and 10 U.S.C. 8679(b)), indicating an attempt to comply with existing statutory law.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).