US finally set to receive a new heavy icebreaker as Russia and China extend their lead in the Arctic

In recent years, Russian President Vladimir Putin has placed a large emphasis on expanding the Russian presence throughout the oft-ignored Arctic. As sea ice continues to melt, new shipping lanes and natural resources, and with them, economic opportunities may help to reinvigorate Russia’s declining economy, thanks to the nation’s massive fleet of more than 40 sizable icebreakers. Recently, China began development of its own nuclear-powered icebreaker, making it only the second nation on Earth (behind Russia) with such a capability. In fact, China’s new icebreaker will be the nation’s first-ever surface vessel to carry such a power plant. These are the economic and military implications of fielding an Arctic presence, despite China having no Arctic borders whatsoever.

Here in the United States, where many are inclined to dismiss long-term concerns about Arctic security in favor of addressing equally pressing short-term threats, America’s Arctic capabilities have been in steady decline. The nation’s fleet of three icebreakers eventually fell to two, as one became nothing but a parts donor to keep America’s only heavy icebreaker afloat. That heavy icebreaker, the Polar Star, has proven to be rather unreliable, with its most recent voyage beset by mechanical failures. At one point, divers even had to enter the frigid waters beneath the vessel to conduct repairs to get the mission back underway.