A historic milestone in Arctic research and shipbuilding is underway—Finnish engineering firm Elomatic has secured its largest-ever contract to design the biggest icebreaker ever built by Western nations. Commissioned by thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS), the Polarstern II will replace Germany’s existing Polarstern research vessel and become the world’s most advanced Arctic research icebreaker.

Here’s everything you need to know about this groundbreaking project.

What Is Polarstern II? The Future of Arctic Exploration 🌍

🚢 Polarstern II will be a massive, state-of-the-art research icebreaker, built to navigate and withstand the world’s harshest polar conditions.

✅ Commissioned by: Germany’s thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS)
✅ Designed by: Finland’s Elomatic
✅ Shipyard: Wismar, Germany
✅ Planned Completion: 2030
✅ Mission: Replacing the aging Polarstern for Arctic and Antarctic research

Once completed, Polarstern II will be the largest and most advanced research icebreaker ever built by a Western nation.

Why Is This a Game-Changer? 🚀

This project is a massive win for Elomatic, solidifying Finland’s global leadership in icebreaker technology. Finland has long been a powerhouse in Arctic engineering, and this deal reinforces its position in the industry.

📌 Biggest contract in Elomatic’s history
📌 Strengthens Finland’s reputation as a leader in ship design
📌 Boosts European collaboration in Arctic research
📌 Revolutionizes scientific exploration in extreme conditions

According to tkMS, the ship will feature the latest icebreaking technology, sustainable energy systems, and cutting-edge research labs to support climate studies in both the Arctic and Antarctic.

Elomatic’s Key Role in the Project 🔧

Elomatic will handle all key aspects of the ship’s design, including:
🛠️ Basic and detail engineering
⚙️ Icebreaking efficiency optimization
🏗️ Consulting during the ship’s construction

Elomatic’s Maritime Technologies GmbH, established in Wismar in 2022, will also support the project from Germany. This move strengthens Finland-Germany cooperation in high-tech shipbuilding.

What’s Next for the World’s Most Powerful Icebreaker? ❄️

🔹 2025-2026: Finalization of ship design
🔹 2026-2030: Construction at tkMS Wismar shipyard
🔹 2030: Expected launch of Polarstern II

Once operational, Polarstern II will push the limits of Arctic exploration, helping scientists study climate change, marine biodiversity, and ice dynamics like never before.

Why This Icebreaker Project Matters for Finland & the World 🌎

This is more than just a ship—it’s a game-changing innovation in polar research, sustainability, and shipbuilding technology.

🚀 Boosts Finland’s standing as a global icebreaker leader
🚢 Showcases Europe’s commitment to Arctic research
🌍 Advances climate science & environmental monitoring
💰 Strengthens Finland-Germany engineering collaboration

With Polarstern II, Finland’s Elomatic and Germany’s thyssenkrupp Marine Systems are rewriting the future of Arctic exploration.