Birdon America, Inc. has announced significant improvements at its Bayou La Batre, Alabama shipyard, aimed at enhancing capabilities for the U.S. Coast Guard's Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) program. The company is investing over $27 million to modernize its facilities, which will allow for the simultaneous construction of up to four vessels. This investment follows Birdon's receipt of U.S. Coast Guard certification in August 2024, enabling the docking and relaunching of vessels weighing up to 589 long tons. Birdon has been awarded a substantial $1.187 billion contract in 2022 for the construction of 27 WCC vessels, which are crucial for maintaining the U.S. Marine Transportation System that spans over 12,000 miles. The company, established in 1977, has a strong presence in both Australia and the U.S. and is recognized as a key defense contractor. In-house design work is also being performed to mitigate technical risks associated with the project. [31a156f7]