In future, underwater tankers and bulk carriers will be used to transport goods in the Arctic, said Alexander Yulin, the head of the laboratory of long-term ice forecasts and ice regime of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute of Russia.
According to the scientist, the Arctic is becoming increasingly attractive for shipping due to global climate change. In this regard, new research equipment and new modes of transportation are being actively introduced in the region. One of the alternatives to modern cargo ships may be submarines that do not depend on the ice situation.
"So far these are theoretical ideas, but they are currently being actively discussed. Modified submarines may become transport vessels. In areas where there are large ice sheets, they will descend to a depth of 50-100 m, overcoming an obstacle. Then, in warm seas, they will be able to continue their journey in surface mode. However, for such projects, an appropriate loading and unloading infrastructure is needed," Yulin explained.
He added that hovercraft will be in demand for passenger traffic and tourist trips in the area of the Northern Sea Route. They will also ensure the transportation of people and goods, regardless of the ice situation.
At the same time, drones are now widely used in the Arctic for ice exploration and mail delivery. In future, the importance of these vehicles will only increase, angi.ru reports.
Alex Shishlo for Rough&Polished
