Canada Awards Seaspan $3.15 Billion for Polar Icebreaker Construction

The Government of Canada has awarded Seaspan's Vancouver Shipyards a contract valued at approximately $3.15 billion, excluding taxes, for building a new polar icebreaker. This project is part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), which was introduced by various government representatives, including Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson.

The NSS aims to rejuvenate the fleets of the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard. Under this strategy, two polar icebreakers are set for construction, with Seaspan's shipyard in British Columbia constructing one, and Chantier Davie Canada Inc. managing the other.

This initiative supports the continuous operation of Canadian maritime endeavors in high latitudes and aids in enhancing Arctic security. It is also intended to support remote communities and contribute to scientific research in Arctic regions.

The NSS, now in its fifteenth year, is intended to foster economic advantages across Canada while promoting sustainable shipbuilding. Since 2010, the strategy has created jobs and facilitated the delivery of numerous vessels to Canadian fleets.