Steerprop, a renowned high-performance propulsion systems designer and manufacturer, has clinched a deal to supply advanced ice classed bow thrusters for the Canadian Coast Guard’s upcoming Polar Icebreaker. The vessel, a pivotal component of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, is under construction at Seaspan Shipyards and is poised to emerge as one of the world’s most robust icebreakers.
Steerprop will enhance the Polar Icebreaker’s capabilities with two specially designed arctic tunnel thrusters, crafted to navigate the harshest ice conditions without the traditional protection of tunnel grids. Marking a milestone for Steerprop, this delivery includes the inaugural deployment of their unique ice-strengthened tunnel thruster. The comprehensive package encompasses a bridge control system and an offline oil filtering system, ensuring a holistic and efficient propulsion solution.
Leveraging decades of experience in delivering ice-classed solutions, Steerprop has tailored an optimal solution aligned with the icebreaker’s operational profile. Their commitment to a “fit for purpose” approach not only optimizes operational performance but also bolsters reliability and safety. The integrated propulsion solution is poised to curtail lifecycle costs and minimize maintenance requirements, reinforcing the vessel’s efficiency in demanding Arctic conditions.
The Polar Icebreaker, a multi-mission vessel, boasts a displacement of 27,876 tonnes, measuring 150 meters in length and 28 meters in width. Accommodating up to 100 individuals, this formidable vessel holds a Polar Class 2 (PC2) rating, the second-highest according to the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS). This designation empowers the icebreaker to operate in challenging ice conditions, including multi-year ice, for extended durations, surpassing the capabilities of other Canadian icebreakers.
Russell Davison, Vice President of Coast Guard Programs at Seaspan, emphasized the critical role the Polar Icebreaker will play in the Arctic’s ice-covered waters. Designed to support the Canadian Coast Guard in transiting and safeguarding the Arctic coastline, the vessel aims to maintain a year-round presence, responding to emergencies, supporting local communities, and advancing arctic sovereignty and high-Arctic science.
Speaking on the reliability imperative, Juho Rekola, Director of Sales and Project Management at Steerprop, highlighted the extreme conditions the propulsion system must endure. Steerprop’s relentless focus on ultimate dependability forms the bedrock of their Research and Development efforts. For the Polar Icebreaker, the thrusters are meticulously engineered to navigate severe ice conditions, reflecting Steerprop’s extensive experience in delivering propulsion systems to ice-classed vessels.
Since delivering its first propulsion units for an icebreaker in 2008, Steerprop has maintained a prominent position in this demanding segment. Operating in both the Baltic Sea and the Arctic Ocean, the company has continually refined the performance and reliability of its solutions, with a specific emphasis on meeting the challenges posed by the Polar Code regions.
