Mobile-based shipbuilder Austal USA has been awarded a U.S. Coast Guard contract, which has the potential to reach $3.3 billion in value, to construct 11 medium-endurance Offshore Patrol Cutters.

The shipbuilding award, which includes $209 million in immediate obligated funding, is in support of the maritime branch’s Offshore Patrol Cutter program. The program will commission up to 25 Heritage class cutters over the next two decades.

In a statement celebrating Austal USA’s contract award, U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Tuscaloosa), the vice chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee and its Subcommittee on Defense, touted the Mobile-based shipbuilder’s operations in support of national security.

“The Coast Guard’s decision to select Austal USA to build its second round of Offshore Patrol Cutters highlights the world-class workforce and proven track record of the Mobile shipyard,” stated Shelby in a release. “This contract speaks to the reliability and strength of Austal employees along the Gulf Coast, as well as their ability to deliver. This is excellent news for the future of our Coast Guard and for shipbuilding in Alabama. I look forward to the positive impact that Austal and Mobile have on the security of our nation.”

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Also touting the shipbuilder securing the U.S. Coast Guard contract was U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile), a member of the House Armed Service Committee, who heaped praise upon Austal USA’s workforce.

“Congratulations to Austal USA on being awarded a contract to build up to 11 Offshore Patrol Cutters for the United States Coast Guard. This announcement is great news for Austal USA, south Alabama, and the defense interests of the United States,” advised Carl. “Thanks to our top-notch workforce and strong track record of shipbuilding along the Gulf Coast, Austal USA has a new opportunity to continue providing world-class ships for the Coast Guard.”

Carl touched on the South Alabama congressional district’s private sector prestige and his efforts to support local industry on Capitol Hill.

“Alabama’s First Congressional District is committed to producing, training, and equipping the world’s best Coast Guard, and I’m proud to be a fighter for them in Congress,” he noted. “I look forward to seeing these ships be built and put to use keeping our nation safe and secure for many years to come.”

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL