The keel-laying ceremony for the 6th serial multipurpose nuclear-powered icebreaker Stalingrad was held at the Baltic Shipyard in St. Petersburg. In his remarks, the President expressed confidence that the new vessel would live up to its name.

“Working in the harsh Arctic conditions, making its way through the ice, it will become another symbol of the talent, strength, and creative energy of our people, of their ability to set ambitious goals and bring the boldest plans to life, and to withstand even the most difficult times,” Vladimir Putin stated.

The President thanked Russian shipbuilders, nuclear scientists and engineers for their contribution to the development of the national icebreaker fleet. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening Russia’s positions in the Arctic and developing the economy of the Northern Sea Route.

Putin noted that the new powerful nuclear icebreaker will without a doubt make a great contribution to the economic development of the Northern Sea Route.

The Project 22220 icebreakers are the largest and most powerful in the world. Their main task is to ensure year-round navigation in the western Arctic.