The Canadian government has awarded Quebec-based shipbuilder Chantier Davie Canada a contract for the design of six new icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard.
In Atlantic Canada, the new icebreakers will perform icebreaking services, escort ships through ice-covered waters, and help clear ice from harbours and wharfs, the latter duty being essential to Canada's commercial fisheries. In the Arctic, they will provide icebreaking support to ships, ensuring the safe transport of vital supplies, goods, and people in Canadian waters.
Jean-Yves Duclos, Canada's Minister of Public Services and Procurement, said the icebreakers will be among the most advanced, sustainable, and durable vessels tailored to the world's harshest environments.
The new icebreakers will replace the coast guard's medium icebreakers that operate in Atlantic Canada and the St Lawrence waterways during the winter, and in the Arctic during the summer.
Davie will begin work to develop the initial design under the contract, which is valued at approximately CA$19.6 million (US$14.4 million).
The contract will enable Davie to initiate project planning phases, such as the initial design to evaluate the requirements to build the ships. As the government and Davie progress in various pre-construction phases, a more defined build schedule will be determined.