Moreover, records of actual and projections of future icebreaker use suggest that a fifth icebreaking vessel may not be needed. NSF justifies the proposed vessel on the grounds that (1) Arctic research needs are increasing and (2) the United States does not have a vessel dedicated to Arctic research. To determine icebreaker requirements, the 1990 study quantified operational and research mission needs. Coast Guard’s Shortcomings Not Compelling Justification for Vessel, Given Recent Improvements

Many in the Arctic scientific community justify the acquisition of the proposed vessel on the grounds that the Coast Guard, because it has multiple missions, does not possess the desire, skills, or facilities to provide adequate support for Arctic science. In addition, according to the Coast Guard, the Healy will serve primarily as an Arctic research vessel. 3. The proposed vessel is an icebreaker. 4. The 1993 U.S. Arctic Research Plan mentions the Coast Guard role of supporting Arctic research and describes an Arctic research vessel (the proposed vessel) but does not demonstrate a need for the vessel.
Why GAO Did This Study

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the justification for the National Science Foundation's (NSF) proposed procurement of an icebreaking research vessel.

What GAO Found

GAO found that: (1) NSF and the scientific community have not demonstrated an increase in icebreaker requirements since 1990 to sufficiently justify a fifth icebreaker vessel; (2) the three icebreakers currently in operation are underutilized and no research cruises in the Arctic region are planned for 1995 or 1996; (3) a fourth icebreaker is being built for the Coast Guard to serve as an Arctic research vessel; and (4) many Arctic scientists justify the acquisition of the proposed vessel on the grounds that the Coast Guard is unwilling and unable to provide reliable support to Arctic research activities, although the Coast Guard's commitment to Arctic research has recently improved.