Posted on July 9, 2025
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard welcomed the nearly $25 billion investment included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Friday — marking the largest single commitment of funding in Service history.
This investment strengthens every facet of Coast Guard operations and supports the Service’s role as the Nation’s leading drug interdiction and maritime border security force.
This funding will allow the Coast Guard to procure an estimated 17 new icebreakers, 21 new cutters, over 40 helicopters and six C-130J aircraft while modernizing shore infrastructure and maritime surveillance systems. The package also strengthens the Coast Guard’s ability to counter drug and human trafficking, conduct search and rescue, enhance navigational safety and enable maritime trade.
“This historic investment marks a new era for the Coast Guard,” said Coast Guard Acting Commandant Adm. Kevin Lunday. “It reflects the strong support of the American people and empowers us to restore our Service and prepare for the challenges of today and tomorrow. With this level of support, and the dedication of our Coast Guard men and women, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to build a stronger Coast Guard for the Nation.”
Investment highlights include:
- $4.4 billion for shore infrastructure, training facilities and homeports
- $4.3 billion for Polar Security Cutters, extending U.S. reach in the Arctic
- $4.3 billion for nine new Offshore Patrol Cutters
- $3.5 billion for three Arctic Security Cutters
- $2.3 billion for more than 40 MH-60 helicopters
- $2.2 billion for depot level maintenance to sustain readiness
- $1.1 billion for six new HC-130J aircraft and simulators
- $1 billion for Fast Response Cutters
- $816 million for light and medium Icebreaking Cutters
- $266 million for long-range unmanned aircraft systems
- $170 million for maritime domain awareness, including next-generation sensors
- $162 million for three Waterways Commerce Cutters
These investments support Force Design 2028 — the Secretary’s comprehensive effort to modernize operations and capabilities to ensure the Coast Guard remains the finest maritime fighting force ready to protect and defend the nation for decades to come.
The Coast Guard extends its appreciation for the leadership of the Administration, including President Trump and Secretary Noem, and leaders in Congress for recognizing the strategic importance of a ready, modern and resilient Coast Guard.
About the U.S. Coast Guard
With more than 95,000 miles of shoreline, 25,000 miles of navigable rivers and 4.5 million square miles of U.S. exclusive economic zone, the U.S. Coast Guard defends the Nation, protects the maritime transportation system, regulates and safeguards ports and waterways, leads the Nation in drug interdiction and secures the maritime border. As a member of the joint force, a law enforcement organization, a regulatory agency and a member of the U.S. intelligence community, the Coast Guard employs a unique mix of authorities to ensure the safety and integrity of the maritime domain to protect the economic and national security of the nation. The more than 55,000 members of the Coast Guard operate a multi-mission, interoperable fleet of more than 250 cutters, 200 fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, 1,600 boats and its own dedicated cyber command to protect critical maritime infrastructure.
More information about the U.S. Coast Guard can be found at www.uscg.mil.
