A new icebreaker capable of cutting through 2.8 meters of thick ice was launched in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on November 22.
The launch ceremony of the icebreaker Yakutia in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Video: AFP
During the launch ceremony via video link from the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the strategic importance of the new icebreaker – named Yakutia – in Russia’s efforts to seek new energy markets and strengthen its position as a “Arctic power.”
The ship is 173 meters long with a displacement of 33,540 tons and can navigate through ice up to 2.8 meters thick. It is designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the Far North. Yakutia will enhance the significance of the Northern Sea Route, allowing vessels to reach Asian ports within 15 days, faster than through the Suez Canal.
“This vital corridor will enable Russia to fully leverage its export potential and establish an efficient logistics route to Southeast Asia,” Putin stated.
The new icebreaker named Yakutia.
Moscow has invested heavily in the Northern Sea Route over the years, but Putin’s military campaign in Ukraine and subsequent Western sanctions have created a “new urgency” for plans to redirect energy exports to Asia.
Russia’s industry has faced difficulties in recent months due to a lack of many crucial equipment and components produced in the West. Icebreakers are expected to be a game-changer.
“Russia will enhance the capabilities of its nuclear icebreaker fleet,” Putin added. “They are essential for research and development in the Arctic, to ensure maritime safety in this region, and to boost traffic along the Northern Sea Route.”
Yakutia is expected to join the fleet by the end of 2024. Russia is also developing another super-powerful nuclear icebreaker named Rossiya. This vessel is 209 meters long with a displacement of 71,380 tons and can break through ice up to 4 meters thick. It is expected to be completed by 2027.
