Representatives from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently engaged in discussions with Canadian and Finnish counterparts during a two-day summit for the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact). This trilateral agreement aims to enhance United States supply chains, increase domestic employment, and improve U.S. shipbuilding capabilities.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated, “ICE Pact is a key component of America’s economic future. President Donald Trump and U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem understand that economic security is national security.” She added that by revitalizing U.S. shipyards and creating jobs, the administration is prioritizing America's prosperity and security.
The summit involved government leaders discussing plans with public and private stakeholders to advance technical expertise, workforce development, relations with allies and industry, as well as research and development. The meeting concluded with an agreement to reconvene by the end of the year for another session hosted by the U.S. government.
Icebreakers are deemed essential for maintaining America's presence in the Arctic—a region increasingly contested by Russia and China due to its potential for oil exploration, minerals, trade routes, fishing, and tourism. Russia has prioritized this area with a fleet exceeding 40 icebreakers while China is also expanding its efforts in collaboration with Russia.
Until recently, the United States Coast Guard operated only two icebreakers. However, in late May, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Storis embarked on its maiden voyage to the Arctic under ICE Pact's initiative to increase investment in this sector.
Plans from ICE Pact meetings will enable the construction of American-made Arctic and polar icebreakers through collaboration between the U.S., Canada, and Finland.
