How the Trump administration is overhauling Coast guard
In an effort to crack down on illegal migrant crossings and drug interdictions, the Trump administration has initiated a complete overhaul of the Coast Guard. The new Force Design 2028 plan, unveiled this month, aims to revamp the organizational structure, personnel, acquisitions, contracting, and technology within the Coast Guard. These changes are in response to directives from President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The Coast Guard, which currently consists of approximately 43,000 active-duty personnel, is seeking to strengthen its force by assessing which specialties need reinforcement and expanding training. This initiative is part of the administration’s push to ramp up efforts against illegal immigration and drug smuggling, according to a Department of Homeland Security official familiar with the plan.
One key aspect of the plan is to align the Coast Guard with the physical fitness and grooming standards of the Department of Defense. Unlike other military branches, the Coast Guard did not enforce fitness standards unless personnel were part of boat crews or law enforcement teams. The proposal now directs the Coast Guard to adhere to Department of Defense physical fitness standards as closely as possible, potentially including an annual fitness test.
Moreover, the plan includes organizational changes such as establishing a secretary for the service and creating a Coast Guard headquarters director of staff to improve decision-making at a high operational level. Legislation introduced in the Senate aims to establish a civilian secretary for the Coast Guard, similar to the structure of other military branches.
The Coast Guard is already implementing changes outlined in the force design plan and is set to complete the modernization effort within three years. Progress is already evident, as the service has seized 11% more cocaine in FY25 than it did in all of FY24. Additionally, the Coast Guard is addressing recruiting challenges and has brought in over 4,250 new recruits this fiscal year – exceeding goals and filling training centers to maximum capacity.
Overall, the overhaul of the Coast Guard is a significant step towards enhancing the service’s capabilities in combating illegal activities and fulfilling its mission. By aligning with Department of Defense standards and implementing key organizational changes, the Coast Guard is poised to become more effective and efficient in safeguarding the nation’s maritime security.
