ABB will supply a full electric power and propulsion package for the Canadian Coast Guard’s new Polar Max icebreaker. The vessel, built through a collaboration between Helsinki Shipyard in Finland and Davie Shipbuilding in Quebec, is scheduled to enter service by 2030 under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.
The 22,800-ton, 138.5-meter ship will feature 18MW of Azipod® propulsion, ensuring high performance in demanding Arctic ice conditions. In addition to icebreaking duties, Polar Max will support research, oil-spill response, emergency towing, maritime rescue, and northern resupply missions.
“This project strengthens cooperation between Finland and Canada and highlights Azipod® propulsion’s proven performance in polar operations,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports.
ABB will integrate the ship’s complete power and propulsion system, including Azipod® units, propulsion motors, batteries, shore-power capability, and the AX Bridge navigation solution.
Helsinki Shipyard CEO Kim Salmi called the contract “a key milestone” in expanding Arctic shipbuilding capabilities, while Davie Shipbuilding CEO James Davies noted the project reflects a shared commitment to world-class polar vessel design.
The Polar Max builds on ABB’s long history in ice-class technology, with Azipod® systems already installed on nearly 100 ice-capable ships worldwide.
