In fact, Bollinger – the largest privately-owned shipbuilder in the US – is already building the first heavy icebreaker in the United States in 50 years. Furthermore, American owned, Canada-based Seaspan Shipyards – a leading icebreaker design and build shipyard – is currently sitting on the largest order book of ice capable vessels in the world.

The two Finnish companies of the foursome, however, have even more icebreaking expertise to bring to the table.

While Rauma Marine Constructions is a leading European shipbuilder specializing in ice-capable vessels and naval platforms, Aker Arctic is a respected authority in icebreaking technology and design, having“ fathered” the majority of the icebreaker designs currently in operation today.

MEETING THE MOMENT

The strategic partnership leverages the trilateral ICE Pact framework to build a modernized U. S. icebreaking fleet.

Rauma provides added value through crew training, bridge simulator programs, and ice trials.

As the partnership was forged, Mika Nieminen stated that this strategic collaboration presents“ a unique opportunity” to apply the shipyard’ s proven capabilities in support of the US Coast Guard’ s Arctic mission. According to Nieminen, the key to speedy delivery lies in leveraging a mature design and deep experience in building technically complex vessels for operation in severe winter conditions.

“ With a fully operational production line and world-class facilities, we bring reliability and results – not projections. Beyond construction, Rauma provides added value through crew training, bridge simulator programs, and ice trials to support successful commissioning and elevates the technological and operational capabilities,” Nieminen commented. n

20 seatec 1 / 2026