Japan Unveils First Arctic Research Vessel for Environmental Science

The Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) has unveiled Japan’s first Arctic research vessel, the Mirai II. Construction on the vessel began in 2021 at the Japan Marine United Corporation’s shipyard. The Mirai II is an impressive 128 meters long, 23 meters wide, and has a draft of 8 meters. With a tonnage of 13,000 tons, it is capable of breaking through 1.2 meters of flat one-year ice at a speed of 3.0 knots. The vessel can accommodate 97 individuals, including 34 crew members and 63 researchers, and is classified as Polar Class 4, allowing it to navigate waters with thick first-year ice.

Equipped with advanced systems for safe navigation in sea ice areas, the Mirai II features a dual fuel engine for reduced environmental impact and improved fuel efficiency. The vessel was launched on March 19, 2025, with construction set to continue until its completion and delivery in autumn 2026. The construction of the Mirai II represents JAMSTEC’s commitment to addressing environmental changes and issues in the Arctic region. This research icebreaker will serve as an international platform for studying meteorology, climate, atmospheric chemistry, and changes in oceanic, atmospheric, and sea ice conditions.

The Mirai II’s deployment as an international research platform will focus on studying various aspects of the Arctic region, including meteorology, climate, atmospheric chemistry, and changes in oceanic, atmospheric, and sea ice conditions. The vessel’s construction and launch mark a significant milestone in JAMSTEC’s efforts to investigate and find solutions to environmental challenges in the Arctic. With its cutting-edge technology and capabilities, the Mirai II is poised to make valuable contributions to scientific research in the region.

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