A 60 MW nuclear turboelectric icebreaker of the 22220 Chukotka project has been launched at the Baltic Plant in St. Petersburg. The ceremony was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Transport Minister Roman Starovoit via videoconference.
The President of the country congratulated the participants of the event on an important stage in the history of our modern icebreaking fleet, and thanked the specialists who participate in this work for their responsibility and high professionalism.
"The creation of such powerful, modern vessels is another embodiment of Russia's industrial, scientific, human and technological potential. This is exactly how the entire domestic economy should develop on the basis of its own technologies and breakthrough scientific solutions," the head of state said. "The implementation of our plans to develop Arctic territories and increase cargo traffic on the routes of the Northern Sea Route directly depends on strengthening the country's icebreaking fleet."
Vladimir Putin also suggested thinking about forming more effective tariffs for icebreaking cargo transportation so that more carriers and senders would be able to use such services. "Moreover, interest in this route is growing every year from both Russian and foreign companies – and I am sure it will grow," the President stressed.
Among the upcoming tasks, the head of state named the expansion and increase of capacities of short- and long-distance railway approaches to the Murmansk transport hub, as well as the construction of a Northern latitudinal passage with promising exits to the ports of Yamal, Taimyr and the north of the Krasnoyarsk Territory.
Russia is the first in the world in terms of the number and total capacity of the icebreaker fleet – over 40 icebreakers. The icebreaker Chukotka will become a powerful tool in the development of the entire Arctic region. The colossal capacity of 60 MW allows icebreakers of this class to carry out independent year-round wiring of vessels, including large-tonnage ones, in the Western Arctic region. It is also capable of conducting wiring in shallow areas of the Yenisei and the Gulf of Ob, towing ships and floating structures, providing assistance and performing rescue work.
The main difference between icebreakers with a nuclear power plant is a significant energy capacity. A nuclear icebreaker can operate without "refueling" for several years. In addition, fuel reserves do not take up space on the ship, which allows you to increase the payload and work for a long time without entering the port (more than a year). The power of a nuclear icebreaker makes it possible to work in ice 2.8 meters thick, which is significantly higher than the maximum capabilities for a diesel icebreaker.
Please note that this press release is based on materials provided by the company. AK&M Information Agency shall not be held liable for its contents, nor for the legal and other consequences of its publication.
