Coast Guard Reassigns Icebreaker Polar Star To Arctic; McMurdo Now To Be Supplied By Air

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JUNEAU, Alaska — The U.S. Coast Guard has assigned its icebreaker Polar Star to the Arctic in December instead of its normal role in supporting Antarctic affairs.

The Polar Star’s change in deployment was due to concerns stemming from the coronavirus pandemic. The announcement also echoes concerns from military commanders in Alaska about security in the region, the Juneau Empire reported Friday.

“The Arctic is no longer an emerging frontier, but is instead a region of growing national importance,” said Vice Adm. Linda Fagan, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area. “The Coast Guard is committed to protecting U.S. sovereignty and working with our partners to uphold a safe, secure, and rules-based Arctic.”

EDIT

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/11/01/coast-guard-icebreaker-assigned-to-arctic-instead-of-antarctic/