Canada and the United States are building up their icebreaker fleets to strengthen their positions in the Arctic in a bid to compete with Russia and China.
Russia is currently the world’s leader in terms of icebreaker numbers, with a fleet of 47 vessels, 17 of which are heavy icebreakers capable of passing through thicker ice.
Russia is currently building 15 icebreakers, and a contract has been signed for the construction of another one.
In turn, Canada has 19 icebreakers, of which only one is of heavy class. The country is currently building two more heavy icebreakers, and they are scheduled to be launched in the next seven years. In total, Canada has financed the construction of 20 ships for the Arctic.
The United States has only three icebreakers but has allocated finances for the construction of another 17 vessels.
China, which cooperates with Russia and is the world leader in shipbuilding, is also participating in the development of the Arctic. The country is also expanding its icebreaker fleet, which now consists of six vessels, hibiny.ru reports.
Alex Shishlo, Editor in Chief of the European Bureau, Rough&Polished
