RMC awarded contract to build two U.S. Coast Guard arctic icebreakers in Rauma
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Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) today announced that it has been awarded a contract by the United States Coast Guard (U.S. Coast Guard) for the construction of two Arctic Security Cutters (ASC). The contract will deliver the first two ASCs , as part of the historic agreement between the United States and Finland to accelerate delivery of icebreakers to the U.S. Coast Guard. Construction of the vessels will begin immediately.
Award underscores Finland’s leadership in icebreaker construction and RMC’s ability to accelerate delivery of critical Arctic capability.
“The awarded contract marks a historic milestone. It is a major vote of confidence in RMC and in the Finnish maritime industry network. We secured this significant deal thanks to our expertise and capability to build the ships within the required timeframe. Our fast delivery times make us the most affordable option on the market. Now it is time for us and our network to prove ourselves and demonstrate that we are worthy of trust,” said Mika Nieminen, CEO at Rauma Marine Constructions.
The icebreakers will be built at the Rauma shipyard and will be completed in 2028. Satakunta University of Applied Sciences is participating in the project as a training partner.
“Finnish shipyards build the world’s best icebreakers and the largest cruise ships. Securing the icebreaker order for RMC’s shipyard is excellent news for Finland and for our entire maritime industry. The order strengthens the position of Finnish companies in the global value chain, increases Finland’s competitiveness and increases export income,” said Minister of Economic Affairs Sakari Puisto.
“In the case of icebreakers, RMC’s preparatory work started in the autumn, but now we are moving towards full implementation. The entity formed by the shipyard and an extensive network of subcontractors and partners is unique internationally. This will enable us to deliver even the most modern icebreakers quickly and with high quality,” said Minister Puisto.
The order will create jobs, especially in the Rauma region
The icebreaker order is expected to generate approximately 2,000 direct and 5,000 indirect jobs in Finland, with a large share in the Rauma area and Southwest Finland.
The City of Rauma purchased the shipyard ten years ago. Since then, Rauma and local companies have invested around €150 million in the marine industry park.
“This icebreaker order is a historic and remarkable achievement for the Rauma shipyard. The long-term efforts and investments by the City of Rauma and various companies in the marine industry park are now paying off in the best possible way. In addition to block construction, Rauma’s strengths include globally operating marine equipment manufacturers, engineering and design offices, and subcontracting companies,” says Esko Poikela, Mayor of Rauma.
Read RMC’s official announcement »
