U.S. Launches USCGC Argus- The 1st Vessel In Offshore Patrol Cutter Program Of Heritage Class

USCGC Argus, the first vessel in the offshore patrol cutter program of the Heritage class, marking an important achievement for the U.S. Coast Guard at the Nelson Shipyard of Eastern Shipbuilding in Panama City, Florida, was launched successfully.

Video Credit: EasternShipbuilding

It honours the iconic Revenue Cutter Argus, which is amongst the first 10 vessels in the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service, with an incredible 13-year service history commencing in 1791.

The Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) program is essential to the Coast Guard’s development since it will replace the medium endurance cutters, which are 270 feet and 210 feet old.

The contract for up to nine OPCs was initially granted to Eastern Shipbuilding Group in 2016, but it was later reduced to four ships because of Hurricane Michael’s damage in 2018.

With the potential for 10 more boats, Austal USA acquired control for stage two, with a contract value of $3.3 billion.

To improve its capabilities, the Coast Guard is willing to invest more than $12 billion in 25 OPCs.

The USCGC Argus is scheduled to be delivered in September 2024 and is intended to replace the older cutters.

The OPC program is important for enhancing the operational capabilities of the Coast Guard because it works with 200 suppliers from 25 states nationwide and employs about 1,500 people.

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