The US Coast Guard’s newest addition to its polar fleet, the icebreaking cutter Storis, arrived in Seattle July 11 on its journey north to assist in America’s Arctic and polar operations. The vessel, acquired as part of the Coast Guard’s modernization strategy, is the first polar icebreaker added to the fleet in more than a quarter-century.
The arrival follows a series of significant milestones since Storis began its journey northward, including a successful transit through the Panama Canal, testing of new operational systems, and the introduction of updated crewing concepts. The vessel’s integration is part of the Coast Guard’s broader Force Design 2028 initiative, aimed at enhancing capabilities in response to evolving maritime demands.
Once preparations in Seattle are complete, Storis will continue its transit north to Juneau, where the ship is scheduled to be officially commissioned into service Aug. 10.
As the nation’s third active polar icebreaker, Storis is intended to fill critical gaps in U.S. polar presence. Its acquisition provides an immediate operational capability to assure access to the Arctic and Antarctic regions, safeguard U.S. sovereignty, and support broader national security objectives. The addition of Storis is described as a bridging measure, providing vital surface presence until the arrival of new, purpose-built polar security cutters in the coming years.