Program Overview
Birdon is delivering the US Coast Guard’s new Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) fleet, replacing vessels that have served for more than 50 years. This $1.187 billion program includes the design and construction of 27 modern cutters — 16 River Buoy Tenders (WLRs) and 11 Inland Construction Tenders (WLICs) — purpose-built to support the nation’s 12,000-mile Marine Transportation System.
These vessels will enable the Coast Guard to establish and maintain more than 28,200 inland aids to navigation, supporting commerce, safety, environmental protection and the security of US ports and waterways.
The program reflects Birdon’s partnership with the US Department of Homeland Security and its role in strengthening the domestic shipbuilding industrial base through workforce expansion, facility investment and supply chain participation across the Gulf Coast.
Quick Facts
- Client
US Coast Guard
- Lifecycle Stage
Design & Build
- Timeline
2023–2033
- Location
Mobile, Alabama (Bayou La Batre shipyard)
- Fleet Scale
27 vessels (16 WLRs, 11 WLICs)
Program Objectives
- Replace an aging inland fleet to enhance maritime safety and efficiency
- Strengthen US maritime infrastructure and resilience
- Support commerce, navigation and environmental stewardship across inland waterways
- Advance Coast Guard readiness and operational effectiveness
- Create sustainable shipbuilding jobs and regional economic growth
Birdon’s Approach
Birdon is executing the program from its Bayou La Batre, Alabama shipyard, supported by more than $32 million in capital improvements, including expanded fabrication, modular assembly and waterfront infrastructure capable of constructing multiple vessels simultaneously.
The Program Integrates:
- Advanced naval architecture and modular construction methods
- Quality assurance and safety systems aligned with US Coast Guard standards
- Collaboration with US suppliers and small businesses, representing over 70% of contract participation
- Workforce development initiatives through the Birdon Futures Apprenticeship Program, supporting skills in welding, systems integration and marine trades
Outcomes & Impact
Operational Impact
- Modernizes Coast Guard capability to maintain navigation aids across 12,000 miles of waterways
- Improves mission efficiency, crew safety and environmental performance
- Enhances reliability of critical maritime infrastructure
Industrial Economic Impact
- More than 100 new full-time employees hired since 2024
- Strong engagement with local subcontractors and suppliers
- Significant participation from small and veteran-owned businesses across the Gulf Coast
Strategic Alignment
- Supports national maritime infrastructure and economic security
- Reinforces US sovereign shipbuilding capability
- Strengthens long-term Coast Guard operational readiness
Community & Workforce
- The WCC program reinforces the Gulf Coast as a center of excellence for US shipbuilding. Birdon works closely with community colleges, local government and small business networks to expand workforce participation and build long-term capability in the maritime trades.
Capabilities in Action
- Large-scale naval vessel design and construction
- Modular shipbuilding and production at scale
- Integration of navigation, safety and operational systems
- Delivery of multi-vessel defense and government programs
- Workforce development and industrial base expansion
- Compliance with US Coast Guard standards and federal government regulations
