US President Donald Trump has announced a landmark deal with Finland to strengthen America's Arctic presence. Under the agreement, the US Coast Guard will acquire four icebreaker ships built in Finland and construct up to seven more in US shipyards with Finnish expertise. The total 11-vessel fleet is expected to cost $6.1 billion, with the first ship delivered by 2028. The deal aims to counter growing Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic while boosting US maritime capabilities. Experts highlight Finland's Arctic knowledge as crucial for the initiative. The agreement also promises thousands of American jobs and significant investment in shipbuilding. The real challenge lies ahead.
