The new type of vessel represents a breakthrough in the icebreaking technology, according to the partners. Furthermore, this will represent a big step forward in strengthening the Finnish-Russian cooperation in the field of shipbuilding.

The multipurpose vessel, featuring an asymmetrical hull that is based on the icebreaking technology developed by Aker Arctic Technology Oy, will be able to use an innovative sideways movement to collect the oil in demanding ice conditions, as well as to break a broad ice band effectively.

The vessel will also be able independently to solve support, escorting and towing tasks for large tankers in the Baltic Sea. The vessel—about 67 meters long and about 19 metres wide—will be equipped with three rudder propeller devices, and will also be able to tackle a wide range of other towing and rescue tasks.

STX Finland Oy is a shipbuilding company that specializes in building special-purpose icebreaking and ice-class vessels and has a long history of cooperation with the Russian maritime industry. The company’s shipyards have during the last century delivered approximately 2,500 ships to Russia / Soviet Union.