Seaspan Vancouver Shipyards has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Stigterstaal Canada and Algoma Steel to build a Canada-first steel supply chain for a new heavy polar icebreaker. This unprecedented collaboration will position Algoma as the supplier for both classification-grade and general steel, with Stigterstaal handling commercial and logistical coordination for deliveries to the shipyard.
Work on the Canadian Coast Guard’s new heavy polar icebreaker began in April—a vessel that will be the only one of its kind fully constructed in Canada. At 158 meters long and 28 meters wide, it’ll be capable of continuously breaking 2.5 meters of ice and will become the fleet’s most capable asset. Beyond icebreaking, it will support scientific research, search-and-rescue efforts, and reinforce Canada’s Arctic sovereignty.
Seaspan’s Vice President of Supply Chain emphasized that the MoU reflects a shared commitment to advancing the national shipbuilding strategy, boosting Canadian industry, and embedding icebreaking expertise locally. Meanwhile, Algoma’s modernization of its steel mill in Sault Ste. Marie positions it as one of North America’s premier heavy plate producers.
This partnership underscores Canada’s focus on domestic sourcing and industrial resilience, aligning with broader geopolitical priorities in the Arctic region.
🌍 Wider Impact
This move injects momentum into Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy by strengthening domestic content and supply chain viability. It also bolsters Canada’s Arctic readiness at a time when polar-capable fleets are increasingly seen as essential tools of sovereignty amid a changing climate and rising strategic competition.
🔍 Interesting Fact
Seaspan’s icebreaker will be the first heavy pol ar-class vessel built entirely in Canada—marking a milestone since the last domestically-built equivalent in the 1960s.
