Rosatom Plans to Expand Icebreaker Fleet to 17 Vessels
February 13, 2025

The Russian state corporation Rosatom, through its subsidiary FSUE Atomflot, is planning a major expansion of the country's icebreaker fleet, aiming to increase the number of vessels to 17. Currently, three nuclear-powered icebreakers are under construction, with two more in the planning phase.

To accelerate the fleet buildup, Rosatom is also exploring the integration of icebreakers powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and diesel fuel, ensuring flexibility and reliability in varying Arctic conditions.

As of now, the operational fleet includes:

• 6 nuclear icebreakers,

• Several powerful icebreaking tugs,

• The port icebreaker "Ob".

This ambitious expansion strategy is designed to support year-round navigation along the Northern Sea Route and boost the development of Arctic transport infrastructure.