Canada: Construction starts on CCG’s heavy polar icebreaker at Seaspan Shipyards

Seaspan Shipyards has officially commenced the construction of a new heavy polar icebreaker for the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) by cutting the steel for the vessel. This significant milestone marks the beginning of a project that aims to enhance Canada’s capabilities in Arctic operations. The icebreaker, measuring 158 meters in length and 28 meters in width, is designed to accommodate up to 100 personnel and is one of the few Polar-class 2 vessels globally.

Enhanced Arctic Operations and Capabilities

The new polar icebreaker is set to play a crucial role in the Canadian Coast Guard’s operations along the Arctic coastline, which spans over 162,000 kilometers. With its advanced design, the vessel will be capable of navigating through challenging ice conditions and will maintain a year-round presence in Canada’s North. This capability is particularly vital for high-Arctic scientific research, including studies on climate change.

Seaspan has emphasized that the icebreaker will significantly bolster the CCG’s ability to respond to major maritime emergencies, including search and rescue operations. The construction contract for the vessel was signed this month, following the completion of a polar prototype block in January 2024, which was essential for ensuring readiness for the build.

Canada Places Order with Seaspan for Construction of Heavy Polar Icebreaker

This icebreaker will be the seventh vessel constructed by Seaspan under the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) and the fifth Polar-class vessel for the CCG. Overall, Seaspan is set to construct up to 21 icebreaking vessels, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to building maritime capabilities domestically.

Commitment to Domestic Shipbuilding

Seaspan’s commitment to the National Shipbuilding Strategy underscores the importance of a made-in-Canada approach to maritime security and sovereignty. The company has expressed its dedication to sustaining the skills and knowledge developed through the NSS, ensuring that Canada continues to design and build ships at home. Seaspan looks forward to delivering this new polar icebreaker to the Canadian Coast Guard and expanding its fleet of Polar Class vessels for Canada and its allies.

This initiative not only enhances Canada’s operational capabilities in the Arctic but also supports local industries and workforce development, reinforcing the nation’s maritime infrastructure for years to come.