Summary
The United States is buying icebreakers from Finland to strengthen its presence in the Arctic region. Finland is known for its expertise in designing and building icebreakers, which the U.S. plans to use to improve its Arctic security and navigate increasingly accessible trade routes. Finland will build four icebreakers, while seven more will be built in the U.S. using Finnish designs.
Key Facts
- Finland is a global leader in designing and building icebreakers.
- Finnish companies have designed 80% of the world's operational icebreakers.
- President Donald Trump announced the U.S. will order four icebreakers from Finland.
- An additional seven icebreakers will be built in the U.S. with Finnish designs.
- The U.S. aims to boost Arctic security as Russia and China increase their presence in the region.
- A decrease in Arctic ice due to climate change has opened new trade routes.
- U.S. national security laws usually require domestic shipbuilding, but this was waived for these icebreakers.
- The first contracts for these vessels were awarded on December 29.
