Healy and the challenge of arming icebreakers

Healy combines heavy icebreaking work with 4,200 square feet of scientific laboratory space. Proposed replacements for Healy and the Polar icebreakers were being discussed with provision for heavier weapons, so their systems would have to be designed for the operating environment. Healy can break four and a half feet of ice continuously at three knots or tackle ten-foot ice by backing and ramming. Repeated hull shocks and temperatures as low as minus 46 degrees Celsius create a severe environment for missiles, vertical launch cells, and their supporting systems. Any defensive fit therefore needs to be engineered into the ship rather than added casually after construction. Sea Sparrow and torpedo decoys are design recommendations in this discussion. The source gives no announced Coast Guard fit for them.