USCG awards cutter long-lead contract

PASCAGOULA, Miss. - The U.S. Coast Guard awarded a firm fixed-price contract to Northrop Grumman for long-lead material procurement on a fifth National Security Cutter. The contract is for $89 million, with options that would increase potential value to $94 million. The Legend-class cutters are designed to replace the 378‐foot Hamilton-class cutters that entered service during the 1960s. Two of eight planned National Security Cutters have been commissioned, and a third ship will be delivered this year. A construction contract for the fourth ship was awarded on Nov. 29, 2010. Construction will begin on that ship mid-year 2011. (Source: Globe Newswire, 01/17/11)