The largest cutters operated
by the Coast Guard are the Polar Class icebreakers. These cutters, specifically
designed for open-water icebreaking have reinforced hulls, special icebreaking
bows, and a system that allows rapid shifting of ballast to increase the
effectiveness of their icebreaking. The Polar Sea and Polar Star were built
in the 1970s. They serve in Arctic/Antarctic serving science and research
as well as providing resupply to remote stations. Both Polar Class icebreakers
are under the control of Pacific Area, Ice Oreations Section.
Armament: Two .50-caliber
machine guns
Helicopters: Two HH-65A
Crew: 139 Total (14 Officers, 125 Enlisted)
Polar Class Icebreakers in service:
| CONFIGURATION | ***** | CAPABILITIES | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length: | 399 feet | Max. Cruise range at 13 knots: | 28,275 miles | |
| Beam: | 83.5 feet | Endurance, diesels, full power: | 38 days | |
| Designed Draft: | 28 feet | Continuous Icebreaking: | 6 feet at 3 knots | |
| Top of mast above waterline: | 138 feet | Sustained open water speed: | 15 knots (1 diesel/shaft) | |
| Displacement (28' draft): | 13,194 tons | Backing and ramming: | 20+ feet | |
| Shaft horsepower (diesel/turbines): | 18,000/60,000 | ***** | ... | ... |
| STORAGE CAPACITIES | |
|---|---|
| Diesel (at 95%): | 1,359,200 gallons |
| JP-5 (at 95%), helos: | 46,419 gallons |
| Lube oil: | 13,660 gallons |
| Potable water (100%): | 26,586 gallons |
| General cargo | 400 tons |
| Cargo volume (upper/lower hold): | 350/250 m3 |
| Provisioning: | 60-150 days |
| Maximum cargo dimensions: | 7'W x 11'L x 7'H |