Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has announced a significant financial recovery for American taxpayers, amounting to over $260 million. This comes after the cancellation of a U.S. Coast Guard shipbuilding project that was behind schedule and over budget.
The project involved Huntington Ingalls (HII), which began constructing a Legend-class National Security Cutter in May 2021. The cutter was due by 2024 but remains incomplete. Secretary Noem stated, "This is about fulfilling President Trump’s commitment to the American taxpayer," emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility as part of the administration's efforts to revitalize the U.S. Coast Guard through Force Design 2028.
In addition to returning funds to the U.S. Treasury, the Coast Guard will receive $135 million worth of parts from HII. These parts are intended for retrofitting, upgrading, and maintaining the existing fleet of 10 Legend-class cutters. By canceling NSC #11 and securing this parts deal, Secretary Noem aims to ensure that remaining funds are redirected where they are most needed.
Secretary Noem expressed gratitude towards Huntington Ingalls for their cooperation: "I would like to extend my thanks to Huntington Ingalls for negotiating in good faith."
