On May 28, 2008, Baltiysky Zavod OJSC will launch diesel-electric icebreaker Saint Petersburg, the company informs. It is the second vessel of the series of multifunctional icebreakers being built to the order of RosMorPort FSUE. The two icebreakers named after the main cities of Russia “Moscow” and “St. Petersburg” are being built at a national shipyard for the first time after a long period. For the last 30 years Russia used to order non-nuclear icebreakers in foreign countries.
The icebreakers of the series are equipped with unique propulsion system. Total power of steerable propellers installed at the vessels will make 16 MWt, which is to ensure the capacity and maneuvering ability of icebreakers to meet the requirements of winter navigation in the water area of the Gulf of Finland.
The vessels are to provide icebreaker assistance in winter periods and to participate in rescue operations all round the year. For that purpose the icebreakers are to be fitted with up-to-date equipment including pneumatic rescue rigs. The vessels’ maneuvering ability will make it possible to carry out rescue operations under 4-ball storm conditions. The icebreakers will be also fitted with diving systems for operation at the depth of up to 25 meters. Besides, the vessels will have decks for Ка-32 or Ка-226 helicopters.
