MEMORANDUM TO THE SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY
THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR NATIONAL SECURITY AFFAIRS
THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT AND HOMELAND SECURITY ADVISOR
SUBJECT: Development of Arctic Security Cutters
In accordance with the authority granted to me as President under the Constitution and relevant U.S. laws, I issue the following directive:
Section 1. Objective. The United States is currently facing escalating threats in the Arctic region, stemming from strategic rivalry, military posturing, and economic advances by foreign countries. These activities jeopardize U.S. sovereignty, critical maritime routes, and our energy, mineral, and national defense interests.
The fleet of icebreakers and Arctic-capable vessels operated by the United States Coast Guard is inadequate in meeting existing operational requirements, thereby posing a national security challenge.
Sec. 2. Limitations on Vessel Construction in Foreign Yards. (a) In compliance with 14 U.S.C. 1151(b) and 10 U.S.C. 8679(b), I conclude that it is crucial for the national security of the United States to construct up to four Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs) internationally. Within 60 days from the issuance of this memorandum, the United States Coast Guard, through the Secretary of Homeland Security and guided by the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort, shall deliver to the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, the Assistant to the President and Homeland Security Advisor, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a detailed plan for the phased construction of ASCs that also facilitates the transfer of expertise for subsequent domestic icebreaker construction.
(b) This memorandum shall not prevent ongoing investments in the U.S. industrial sector or potential future domestic fabrication of ASCs. This is a temporary measure designed to address an immediate capability shortfall.
(c) The Director of OMB is tasked with forwarding this memorandum to Congress in conformity with 14 U.S.C. 1151(b) and 10 U.S.C. 8679(b)(2).
Sec. 3. Termination and Sunset Provision. This authorization will cease 4 years from the date of this memorandum unless an extension is granted by the President or it is terminated earlier through appropriate Presidential action.
Sec. 4. General Provisions. (a) This memorandum is not to be interpreted as limiting or impacting:
(i) the powers vested by law in any executive department or agency, or its head; or
(ii) the responsibilities of the Director of OMB related to budgetary, administrative, or legislative actions.
(b) This memorandum shall be executed in accordance with applicable laws and contingent upon the availability of funds.
(c) This memorandum is not designed to, and does not, establish any rights or benefits, either substantive or procedural, that can be enforced by any individual against the United States, its departments, agencies, entities, officers, employees, or agents, or any other individual.
DONALD J. TRUMP
