The U.S. Coast Guard has commissioned the USCGC Storis, the nation’s first new polar icebreaker in 25 years, during a ceremony in Juneau, Alaska. Department of Homeland Security Deputy Secretary Troy Edgar attended the event, which is part of an effort to strengthen America’s Arctic capabilities.
“The commissioning of Storis marks a new beginning for the U.S. Coast Guard,” said Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Troy Edgar.“President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill has recapitalized USCG with $25 billion - the largest single investment in USCG. The new investment will lead to a USCG that is better equipped to protect our national interests, support our maritime communities and stand alongside our allies.”
The Storis expands operational presence in the Arctic as a medium polar icebreaker and supports ongoing missions while the Coast Guard awaits delivery of the Polar Security Cutter class. This move reflects increased attention on the Arctic region, where rising activity related to oil and gas exploration, mineral extraction, shipping routes, fishing, and tourism has led to more competition from other nations.
“USCGC Storis is a major win for the American people,” said Adm. Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the Coast Guard.“The commissioning of USCGC Storis immediately strengthens our ability to control, secure, and defend the U.S. border around Alaska and maritime approaches in the Arctic. Storis is the first step of a historic investment in the Coast Guard to add critical capacity to our polar icebreaker fleet to protect U.S. sovereignty and counter malign influence throughout the Arctic.”
The vessel was previously known as Aiviq before its acquisition on December 20, 2024. It underwent modifications to enhance communication and defense systems before being renamed Storis—a name also carried by another historic Coast Guard vessel that operated in Alaskan waters for 64 years.
The $25 billion funding package for modernizing the Coast Guard includes $4.3 billion allocated for Polar Security Cutters; $3.5 billion for three Arctic Security Cutters; $816 million for light and medium domestic icebreaking cutters; and $300 million dedicated to homeporting operations in Juneau.
Storis features a hybrid crew consisting of both Coast Guard personnel and civilian mariners.
President Trump’s plans also focus on strengthening Coast Guard capabilities beyond Alaska—covering operations along both coasts, across Gulf regions, at international locations such as the Rio Grande, and through investments in ships, aircrafts, shore infrastructure, and mission-critical technology.
