Under the agreement, the three shipyards plan to work together to pursue a contract to construct the U.S. Coast Guard’s (USCG) new Homeland Security Cutter – Light Icebreaker. The program calls for seven vessels designed to operate in icy conditions and support USCG missions in northern waters. 

Fincantieri Marine Group, which operates three shipyards in Northeast Wisconsin, will lead the effort, bringing its shipbuilding experience and production network to the partnership while encouraging additional regional companies to participate. 

“Our initial goal is to provide the Coast Guard with a ready-to-build solution for its seven new light icebreakers, and we welcome others to join us on this and other potential projects as we collectively bring significant work to the Fourth Coast,” said Fincantieri CEO George Moutafis. “The alliance of these accomplished shipbuilders remains open to other Great Lakes companies, especially those with maritime technology and manufacturing expertise.” 

The collaboration is intended to create a broader ecosystem of maritime companies across the region capable of supporting large-scale shipbuilding projects. 

Fraser Shipyards CEO Patrick Kelly said the partnership will help accelerate cooperation and innovation among regional shipbuilders. 

“This Great Lakes shipyard alliance will encourage quick mobilization and collaboration among shipbuilders and maritime companies operating in the region as we adopt new shipbuilding technologies,” Kelly said. “The Trump administration has proposed Maritime Prosperity Zones to facilitate stronger relationships among industry partners and communities to increase industrial capacity at a time of renewed investment in domestic shipbuilding.” 

Donjon Marine President and CEO John Witte Jr. said the partnership reflects the type of collaboration needed to strengthen America’s shipbuilding sector. 

“Donjon Shipbuilding is excited to stand alongside Fincantieri Marine Group and Fraser Shipyards in building a stronger future for American shipbuilding on the Fourth Coast,” Witte said. “This alliance reflects the kind of collaboration required to expand domestic industrial capacity and deliver important national shipbuilding programs.”