Keel laid for service ship for nuclear-powered icebreakers
On January 6, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved in maritime engineering with the keel-laying ceremony for the multipurpose service ship, Vladimir Vorobyov, at the Baltic Shipyard in Russia. This vessel is designed to support the operations of nuclear-powered icebreakers, which are crucial for navigating the icy waters of the Arctic. The ceremony marks an important step in enhancing Russia’s capabilities in Arctic navigation and nuclear technology.
A Tribute to a Visionary
The Vladimir Vorobyov is named in honor of the late Vladimir Vorobyov, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 80. Vorobyov played a pivotal role in the development of Russia’s nuclear icebreaker fleet. Yakov Antonov, the acting CEO of Atomflot, emphasized the significance of this tribute. He stated, “The contributions of Vladimir Vorobyov to the development of the nuclear icebreaker fleet are inestimable.” Vorobyov was instrumental in overseeing the construction of the lead universal nuclear icebreaker, Arktika, and was also involved in the design of the Rossiya, another notable nuclear-powered vessel.
Alexander Konovalov, Director General of the Baltic Shipyard, echoed these sentiments, highlighting Vorobyov’s dedication to the shipyard and his commitment to nuclear-powered ship construction. Konovalov remarked, “He was a true team member, committed to our common goal.” This new vessel not only represents a technological advancement but also serves as a lasting tribute to a man whose vision helped shape the future of Arctic navigation.
Enhancing Arctic Navigation Capabilities
The Vladimir Vorobyov will play a crucial role in the operations of the Project 22220 fleet of nuclear-powered icebreakers. Once completed, the ship will facilitate the refueling of nuclear reactors, load and unload fuel, and store used nuclear fuel until it can be transported for reprocessing. This capability is essential for maintaining the operational efficiency of the icebreaker fleet, which is vital for navigating the Northern Sea Route.
The ship will measure 158.8 meters in length and 26 meters in width, with a speed of 12 knots and a draft of 7.5 meters. It will have a displacement of 22,718 tonnes. The commissioning of the vessel is planned for 2029, and it is expected to significantly enhance Russia’s ability to transport goods from Europe to Asia via the Northern Sea Route. This route has become increasingly important as global shipping patterns shift, and the Arctic ice continues to recede.
The keel-laying ceremony was attended by key figures in the maritime industry, including Antonov, Konovalov, Andrey Buzinov, First Deputy CEO of United Shipbuilding Corporation, and Alexander Ryzhkov, Executive Director of Iceberg Central Design Bureau. Their presence underscores the collaborative effort involved in this ambitious project.
The keel-laying of the Vladimir Vorobyov marks a significant advancement in Russia’s maritime capabilities. It honors a visionary leader while paving the way for future developments in nuclear-powered icebreaker technology. As the world looks to the Arctic for new shipping routes, this vessel will play a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient navigation in these challenging waters.
