Construction begins on Canada’s next-gen polar icebreaker

April 1, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Canadian shipbuilder Davie has launched the construction of the Polar Max, Canada’s next–generation polar icebreaker, at its shipyard in Lévis.

Davie became a partner in the Government of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) on April 4, 2023. This agreement is for the design and construction of the largest and most technologically advanced ice-going ships ever constructed in and for Canada. The initial $8.5 billion package of work includes seven heavy icebreakers and two large hybrid-powered ferries.

The Polar Max project, awarded to Davie in March 2025 under NSS, is a major effort to renew and strengthen the Canadian Coast Guard’s capabilities in Arctic waters. The contract, valued at approximately CAD$3.25 billion, tasks Davie with building one of two new polar-class heavy icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard, with delivery expected by 2030.

Canadian Coast Guard’s new polar icebreaker program progresses as first steel arrives

Equipment & technology

Once delivered in 2030, the Polar Max will be one of the most powerful and capable conventional heavy icebreakers in the world. The ship will enable the Canadian Coast Guard to maintain a sustained, year–round presence in the Arctic, supporting sovereignty operations, scientific research, environmental protection, and essential resupply missions.

Dozens of Canadian companies within Davie’s extensive national supplier network have already begun contributing to the Polar Max program. These include Algoma Steel, which produced the Canadian-made steel now being used to assemble the vessel’s superstructure; Hawboldt Industries, which will supply advanced marine equipment; Échafauds Plus, supporting Davie by ensuring safe access to the superstructure and protecting it from the elements; and Gregg’s Marine Interiors, supporting Groupe ALMACO in the assembly of the mock-up cabins.

“Starting construction of Polar Max in Lévis marks an important new phase in a project that is already moving at an exceptional pace. Polar Max shows what can be achieved when trusted allies work together to deliver strategically vital projects when they are needed most. We are proud that work is now moving forward in Canada, where this program will strengthen long-term shipbuilding capacity while helping deliver this ship on time and on budget,” James Davies, Chief Executive Officer, Davie, stated.

“The launch of construction of Polar Max in Lévis signals a new era for Davie, driven by the strength and capability of our workforce. Our employees are at the heart of this achievement. Their expertise and commitment are what makes projects of this scale and significance possible. Polar Max offers our teams the opportunity to build a ship of national importance while creating sustained, high‑value employment and long‑term careers in Canadian shipbuilding,” Lindsey Kettel, President, Davie, commented.

“It’s a pivotal moment for the Coast Guard as we modernize our fleet and strengthen our partnership with National Defence to protect Canada’s Arctic and uphold our sovereignty. Today’s milestone marks real progress on building the Polar Max Icebreaker–an essential asset that will support icebreaking operations, ship escorts, and safe navigation in Canada’s North,” Kevin Brosseau, Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, noted.