The United States has ordered new icebreakers as part of its strategic focus on the Arctic region. Finland, recognized globally for its expertise in icebreaker design and construction, will provide these vessels.
Aker Arctic Technology in Finland operates an ice laboratory where icebreaker designs are tested. Finland is a leading nation in icebreaker technology; Finnish companies have designed 80% and built 60% of all operational icebreakers worldwide. This expertise is a necessity, as Finland's harbors can freeze in winter, making icebreakers essential for maintaining maritime trade routes.
In October, the US announced its plan to acquire four icebreakers from Finland for the US Coast Guard. An additional seven vessels, termed "Arctic Security Cutters" by the US, are slated for construction in the United States, incorporating Finnish designs and expertise.
The US President waived the domestic build requirements for these ships, citing national security concerns related to "aggressive military posturing and economic encroachment by foreign adversaries," specifically Russia and China. The Arctic Ocean's increasing navigability due to climate change is opening new commercial trade routes and making oil and gas fields more accessible, leading to increased activity in the region.
Contracts were awarded on December 29. Finland's Rauma Marine Constructions will build two icebreakers for the US Coast Guard at its shipyard in Rauma, with the first ship expected for delivery in 2028. Four more will be constructed in Louisiana, all utilizing Aker Arctic Technology's diesel-electric design. These acquisitions aim to address a disparity in icebreaker fleets; Russia operates approximately 40 vessels, including eight nuclear-powered ones, while the US currently has three. China operates about five polar-capable vessels, though their classification as technical icebreakers is a subject of discussion.
Lin Mortensgaard, a researcher at the Danish Institute of International Studies, states that the US's expanded icebreaker fleet serves to project power and signal Arctic state capabilities beyond mere operational practicalities.