USCGC Polar Star

Footage of USCGC Polar Star as it departs Seattle CG Station for four month deployment in Antarctica, where it typically cuts channel through to McMurdo Station for other supply vessels to use. Also carries out scientific research. It is one of only two ocean-going icebreakers in US fleet and is the only 'Heavy Icebreaker'. Commissioned in 1976 with crew of 140. It is one of the world's most powerful non-nuclear ships. There is concern in many quarters that the depleted icebreaker fleet is not capable of protecting US interests as expressed in DoD's recently issued Arctic Strategy, particularly as applies to possible opening of Northwest Passage and exploitation of hydrocarbon reserves in region. USCGC Polar Star at Port of Seattle on December 04, 2013 in Seattle, Washington (Footage by Getty Images)