Coast Guard Equipment

The Coast Guard Equipment program, funded under Navy Other Procurement (OPN) Budget Line Item 3620, is designed to provide Navy-Type/Navy-Owned (NT/NO) combat systems and electronic support equipment for United States Coast Guard (USCG) cutters. The program's goal is to ensure Coast Guard vessels are equipped to execute naval warfare tasks in concert with US Navy units, supporting National Fleet objectives and interoperability. This line item is managed through an inter-service agreement, with the Department of the Navy (DON) responsible for planning, programming, and budgeting for specific Navy equipment and systems. Ship construction and installation costs are covered by the Department of Homeland Security.

The SPQ-9B Radar component funds procurement and integrated logistics support (ILS) for the AN/SPQ-9B radar, which is installed on the National Security Cutter (NSC) class. This radar tracks surface targets and low-flying threats, supporting gun engagements and enhancing maritime security capabilities. The budget includes funding for ILS and test support to maintain operational readiness and ensure system reliability, with procurement managed by NAVAIR NAWC/AD in St. Inigoes, MD.

The IFF AIMS line provides Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems for multiple Coast Guard cutter classes, including NSC, Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC), Polar Security Cutter (PSC), and Fast Response Cutter (FRC). The AN/APX-123 transponder is specifically procured for the FRC. These systems enable secure identification of friendly units, reducing the risk of fratricide and supporting coordinated operations with Navy forces. Funding covers equipment procurement, certification, and ILS for various cutter classes, with quantities adjusted based on updated shipyard schedules.

The MK 53 Decoy Launching System (DLS) is funded for NSC, PSC, and OPC classes to provide soft-kill capability against incoming missiles. This system enhances survivability by deploying countermeasures to confuse and divert threats. The program also includes ILS and test support to ensure effective operation and integration with other combat systems. Procurement is handled by Sechan Electronics, Inc. in Lititz, PA.

The MK 46/MK 20 Optical Sighting System supports fire control and target engagement for NSC and OPC classes. The MK 46 Mod 1 OSS and MK 20 Electro-Optical Sighting System (EOSS) provide daytime and thermal imaging, infrared sensing, and laser range finding, all integral to the MK48 Gun Weapon System. Funding supports system integration, initial testing, and procurement of additional EOSS units for OPCs, with L3 KEO in Northampton, MA as the primary contractor.

The Combat System Integration line ensures successful interoperability of Navy-type equipment across Coast Guard cutter classes, including modernization efforts for the 270' Medium Endurance Cutter (WMEC). This funding supports first-of-kind installations, system testing, and evaluation, which are critical for maintaining compatibility with evolving Navy combat systems and technical standards.

The Multi-Mode Radar (MMR) and ATHENA Control, Correlation & Display (CCD) System are key elements for OPC and PSC classes, providing air and surface surveillance, IFF antenna functions, and combat system control and display integration. The ATHENA CCD leverages AEGIS software for advanced target queuing and engagement, supporting software upgrades and hardware integration. Funding addresses obsolescence issues, technical refreshes, and design updates, with SAAB USA and Red River Computer Co Inc. as principal contractors. Additionally, the OPC C4I line funds procurement of command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence equipment, such as ARC-210 radios, antennas, and processors, ensuring Coast Guard cutters remain fully integrated with Navy networks and operational frameworks.