The U.S. Coast Guard has provided its first official update on Force Design 2028, an extensive reform plan aimed at making the service more agile and ready for combat. This comes as the Coast Guard faces increasing demands, from border security to enforcing sanctions far from U.S. waters.

The update, released on January 15, details changes made since early 2025. It highlights how these changes respond to a more complex operational landscape, where the Coast Guard is tasked with more missions and further from home, all while managing limited resources.

“The United States Coast Guard is a crucial part of our national power, enhancing security both domestically and internationally,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in a news release. “With the implementation of Force Design 2028, we expect to see even greater returns on our investment, reflecting the Coast Guard's value to our Nation.”

Force Design 2028 was initiated last year after an internal review showed that the Coast Guard was struggling due to years of underfunding, aging vessels, staffing shortages, and increasing mission demands. The reform plan focuses on four main areas: people, organization, technology, and acquisition. The goal is to improve border security, protect maritime commerce, and respond more swiftly to global situations.

The update states that the Coast Guard works on an annual budget of approximately $12.1 billion but generates over $74 billion in economic and social value. This impressive six-to-one return has been frequently cited by leadership to support the need for increased investment.

“As we present the first update on Force Design 2028, the Coast Guard has already become a stronger, more agile, and responsive fighting entity,” said Adm. Kevin Lunday. “The service is in a better position now than in January 2025 to effectively control, secure, and defend the U.S. borders and maritime areas.”

Recent operations highlight the urgency of these reforms. In the Caribbean and off the coast of Venezuela, Coast Guard cutters have been key in U.S. efforts to combat drug trafficking and enforce maritime sanctions. During fiscal year 2025, the USCG seized 510,000 pounds of cocaine, which is more than three times its long-term annual average.