A new icebreaker is under construction at the Baltic Shipyard, ordered by State Corporation Rosatom. This icebreaker will be the fifth Project 22220 nuclear-powered vessel. These icebreakers are the largest and most powerful vessels in the world, designed to ensure year-round navigation in the Arctic.
During the launch ceremony in St. Petersburg, Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov and Director General of Rosatom Alexei Likhachev delivered reports. The event was attended by various dignitaries including Minister of Transport Roman Starovoit, Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Northwestern Federal District Alexander Gutsan, and Governor of the Chukotka Autonomous Area Vladislav Kuznetsov, among others.
President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, highlighted the significance of the event in the development of the Arctic, Siberia, and the Russian Far East. He praised the specialists involved in the construction of the icebreaker for their dedication and professionalism. The nuclear icebreaker Chukotka will be the fourth icebreaker built under this project, with plans for more in the future.
Putin emphasized the importance of expanding Russia’s icebreaker fleet to support the development of the Arctic territories and increase cargo traffic along the Northern Sea Route. He proposed holding a special meeting to discuss the advanced development of the route and find practical solutions for its improvement.
Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov provided insights into the progress of the Russian icebreaker fleet, highlighting the completion of three new-generation nuclear-powered vessels and the upcoming delivery of the Yakutia icebreaker. Plans for additional icebreakers, including the flagship Rossiya, were also discussed.
Director General of Rosatom, Alexei Likhachev, reported on the development of the Northern Sea Route and the importance of icebreakers in enabling round-the-clock navigation. He expressed gratitude to the Baltic shipbuilders for their work and emphasized the need for continued collaboration to achieve success in Arctic projects.
Overall, the launch ceremony of the nuclear icebreaker Chukotka marked a significant milestone in Russia’s Arctic exploration efforts. The event showcased the country’s commitment to developing its icebreaker fleet and improving transportation infrastructure in the region. With ambitious plans for the future, Russia aims to enhance its capabilities in the Arctic and strengthen its position as a key player in the region.