ESG steel-cuts first OPC

Eastern Shipbuilding Group of Panama City, Fla., reported the steel cutting of the first Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) Argus (WMSM-915) at a ceremony Jan. 7. ESG achieved the milestone even after sustaining damage, and work interruptions, due to Hurricane Michael. The steel-cutting started fabrication and assembly of the OPS’s hull. The keel-laying of Argus will take place later this year. ESG also completed the placement of orders for all long lead-time materials for the second CG cutter Chase (WMSM-916). ESG will construct the OPCs to replace medium endurance cutters currently in service. The contract includes options for production of up to nine OPCs with options for two additional ones. The CG plans to acquire 25 OPCs. (Source: Marine Link 01/29/19)