USCG deploys cutter squadron to Singapore and Subic Bay

The Sentinel-class fast response cutter USCGC Emlen Tunnell . The USCG has moved a squadron of these vessels from the Middle East to operate out of Singapore and Subic Bay. (US Army)

Singapore is serving as the command and logistics hub for a US Coast Guard (USCG) expeditionary cutter squadron operating in the Indo-Pacific region.

In response to questions from Janes, a USCG spokesperson said on 17 July that the squadron is operating from forward locations in Singapore and the Philippines “to protect the homeland and maritime approaches including Guam and the Pacific Islands”.

“The cutters are approved to operate from Singapore and Subic Bay in the Philippines through September [2026], with command and logistics handled out of Singapore and vessels rotating through Subic Bay,” the spokesperson said.

“These operations reflect a long-standing commitment to a free and open Pacific and support a region where all nations, large and small, can operate freely, safely, and lawfully at sea.”

The spokesperson added, “The Coast Guard works alongside regional partners to promote maritime security, stability, and adherence to international law, and we will not characterize the actions or intentions of other nations.”

The squadron is currently operating in support of US Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM).

The details emerged as the USCG announced on 15 July that it is redeploying its expeditionary cutter squadron from the Middle East to the Western Pacific “in response to national security requirements”.

The squadron comprises six Sentinel-class fast response cutters that previously operated under the name Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA) out of Bahrain.

The Sentinel-class vessels are 46.9 m-long patrol cutters designed for maritime security, interdiction, coastal patrol, and partner-capacity-building missions.