ESG contract begins 1st OPC build

The Coast Guard exercised contract options Sept. 28 with Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) of Panama City, Fla., to begin construction of the lead Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) Argus and to acquire long lead-time materials for the second OPC, Chase. The contract option begins the construction of the Argus, and is another milestone in replacing the CG's aging fleet of medium endurance cutters. The value of all the options is $317.5M. In addition to covering production of the lead ship, the contract covers the initial order of components and materials necessary to support future construction of the Chase by acquiring propeller and steering components, marine diesel engines, the ship integrated control system, switchboards, and generators. Delivery of the lead OPC is tentatively planned for 2021. (Source: Marine Link 09/28/18)