FEATURED PRODUCTS

    Polar Icebreakers In A Changing World: An Assessment of U.S. Needs Paperback Book

    Polar Icebreakers In A Changing World: An Assessment of U.S. Needs Paperback Book

    Price: $18.95
    SKU:
    GKX28988
    Condition:
    New
    Availability:
    Ships In 1 Business Day

    * All items are in excellent collectors condition unless specified in the condition notes or description.

    Condition Note:
    Brand New! Very minor shelf wear.
    Out Of Stock

    Description

    Brand New! Very minor shelf wear.

    The United States has enduring national and strategic interests in the polar regions, including citizens living above the Arctic circle and three year-round scientific stations in the Antarctic. Polar icebreaking ships areA needed to access both regions.A Over the past several decades, the U.S. government has supported a fleet of four icebreakers -- three multi-mission U.S. Coast Guard ships (theA POLAR SEA, POLAR STAR, and HEALY) and the National Science FoundationaEURO (TM)s PALMER, which is dedicated solely to scientific research.A Today, the POLAR STAR and the POLAR SEA are at the end of their service lives, andA a lack of funds and no plans for an extension of the program has put U.S. icebreaking capability at risk. This report concludes that the United States should continue to support its interests in the Arctic and Antarctic for multiple missions, including maintaining leadership in polar science. The report recommends that the United States immediately program, budget, design, and construct two new polar icebreakers to be operated by the U.S. Coast Guard. The POLAR SEA should remain mission capable and the POLAR STAR should remain available for reactivation until the new polar icebreakers enter service. The U.S. Coast Guard should be provided sufficient operations and maintenance budget to support an increased, regular, and influential presence in the Arctic, with support from other agencies. The report also calls for a Presidential Decision Directive to clearly align agency responsibilities and budgetary authorities.