Birdon’s Bayou La Batre shipyard is a purpose-built facility delivering the U.S. Coast Guard’s Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) program, a $1.187 billion contract to design and construct 27 multi-mission vessels that will modernise the Coast Guard’s inland fleet.
The 32-acre site features 1,700 feet of waterfront, a 660-ton Marine Travelift, deepwater access at 16 feet, and more than $27 million in infrastructure upgrades including a semi-automated panel line, dedicated fabrication shops and modern launch systems. The facility is equipped to deliver four or more vessels per year, scaling to six or more as the program matures.
Strategically located on the Gulf Coast with proximity to Mobile and the region’s established shipbuilding supply chain, Bayou La Batre is a critical asset in Birdon’s U.S. operations and a significant contributor to the national Maritime Industrial Base.
Core Capabilities
New-Build Vessel Construction
Design and construction of 27 Waterways Commerce Cutters for the U.S. Coast Guard, supporting 12,000 miles of inland waterways and $5.4 trillion in annual economic activity.
Advanced Manufacturing & Infrastructure
Semi-automated panel line, dedicated fabrication and outfitting shops, 660-ton Travelift, and modern launch systems.
Engineering & C5I Integration
In-house engineering capability supporting complex, multi-mission vessel builds including command, control, communications, computers, cyber and intelligence (C5I) systems integration.
Supply Chain & Small Business Engagement
Over 70% of the WCC program is delivered by small businesses, through rigorous supplier engagement and quality standards. An inclusive, collaborative approach that strengthens regional supply chains and the broader Maritime Industrial Base.
Workforce Development
Birdon Futures apprenticeship program providing on-the-job training in shipbuilding specialties, in partnership with local schools, colleges and training institutions. Building the next generation of Gulf Coast shipbuilders.
Flagship Program
Key programs delivered from this facility include:
Local Impact
Birdon’s Bayou La Batre shipyard is a long-term investment in Gulf Coast economic development, creating hundreds of skilled jobs and strengthening regional shipbuilding capability. Through the Birdon Futures apprenticeship program, partnerships with local educational institutions, and a commitment to small business engagement across the WCC supply chain, the facility contributes to sustainable workforce growth and community resilience in Mobile County and beyond.
Compliance and Certifications
- AS9100D Quality Management Systems
- ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems
