Russia to Construct Four Icebreakers in India

Russia is expanding its shipbuilding cooperation with India by considering two Indian shipyards for the construction of four non-nuclear icebreakers. The estimated cost of the project is $713 million, and the vessels will join Rosatom’s icebreaking fleet operating in the Northern Sea Route. The Indian government is in talks with both a state-owned and a private shipyard for this construction project, as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation with Russia in various areas.

The joint working group, comprising experts from both India and Russia, is currently finalizing negotiations for the icebreaker order. India stands in a favorable position to assist Russia, as the country faces supply chain disruptions due to stringent economic sanctions imposed by the West. With most shipyards in countries like China, South Korea, and Japan fully booked until 2028, Russia is seeking assistance from foreign shipyards for its new ship orders, with India emerging as a promising partner.

Recent data from the Centre for High North Logistics reveals a record level of transit voyages in the Northern Sea Route, with 79 transit voyages recorded as of September 30. The route is becoming increasingly popular for trade between China and Russia, with around 95% of cargo moving from Russia to China. In line with its goal to move around 150 million tons of cargo through the NSR by 2030, Russia plans to build 50 icebreakers and ice-class vessels to support this ambitious target.

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