Finland has officially selected Helsinki Shipyard to build its new-generation Baltic icebreaker Aino, marking the beginning of a major renewal of the country's icebreaking fleet. The project was awarded by the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency following a competitive shipyard selection process.
The new vessel will replace the legendary Voima, one of the world's oldest active icebreakers. Commissioned in 1954, Voima has played a vital role in keeping Finland's ports open during harsh Baltic winters for more than seventy years.
Construction of Aino is scheduled to begin in 2027, with delivery expected in 2029. The new icebreaker will be specifically designed to operate in demanding Baltic Sea ice conditions, ensuring safe year-round navigation and supporting Finland's maritime trade and supply chains.
The project represents more than just the replacement of an aging vessel. It also strengthens Finland's position as one of the world's leading nations in icebreaker design and construction. Helsinki Shipyard has extensive experience building advanced icebreaking vessels for both domestic and international customers.
The new icebreaker will incorporate modern technologies aimed at improving operational efficiency, reliability and environmental performance. Once delivered, Aino will become an essential part of Finland's winter navigation system, helping commercial vessels safely reach Baltic ports even during the most challenging ice conditions.
As global interest in Arctic shipping and ice-class vessels continues to grow, the construction of Aino highlights the increasing importance of modern icebreaking capabilities for international maritime trade and northern sea routes.
