Construction has begun in Finland on the new heavy icebreaker CCGS Arpatuuq, set to join Canada’s fleet in 2030. This marks the country’s first such project in more than half a century. The 139-meter vessel, with a cost of CAD 3.3 billion, will feature a helicopter deck, hangar, accommodations for 100 crew members, and unique “moon pools” for polar research. A second heavy icebreaker, CCGS Imnaryuaq, is already under construction in Vancouver.
At present, Canada operates only one aging heavy icebreaker. To modernize its fleet, the government has committed to building about 20 new icebreakers of various classes, more than doubling its current capacity.
The renewed focus on Arctic capabilities comes amid heightened tensions with the United States. President Donald Trump threatened Canada with tariffs and pushed for greater military integration. In response, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced an additional CAD 9 billion in defense spending, emphasizing the strategic importance of Arctic sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the US is also planning a major fleet expansion. From today’s three icebreakers, Trump aims to add dozens more, allocating USD 8.6 billion. Yet this amount is enough for only 17 new vessels, far behind Russia’s unmatched advantage.
Russia currently operates 47 icebreakers, including eight nuclear-powered ships, and continues to build more. These vessels enable year-round navigation along the Northern Sea Route and expand oil and gas exports. China and several European countries are also increasing their icebreaking capacities to secure a foothold in the Arctic.
Experts note that as climate change shrinks sea ice, the demand for icebreakers is actually rising. They are becoming vital tools in the competition for new trade routes, resources, and military presence in polar regions.
Canada, the US, and Finland have already signed an “Ice Pact” to deepen cooperation in Arctic shipbuilding. NATO, Canadian ministers emphasize, is in urgent need of more icebreakers.
The race for the Arctic is accelerating — and icebreakers are its most important weapon.
