Zukunft: Infrastructure Causes ‘Concern’

Citing the loss of almost 40 percent of the service’s operating budget during the last four years, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Paul F. Zukunft focused his annual State of the Coast Guard remarks on the possible adverse effects of underfunding. “I’m concerned that aging platforms and crumbling infrastructure continue to hinder mission success,” Zukunft said. “At the same time, there has never been a greater demand for the Coast Guard,” he said. Continuing instability around the globe and the unabated flow of illegal drugs from Latin America, and the influx of undocumented immigrants are primary examples of the challenges the Coast Guard faces, Zukunft said. To counter the threats, Zukunft cited increased shore presence and international agreements to stem the flow of drugs. He also reiterated his contention that the service badly needs the new offshore patrol cutter, to replacing legacy vessels that are still in service despite being more than 55 years old.