Davie Shipbuilding Lands First Contract for Canada’s New Icebreaker Fleet

Chantier Davie Canada Inc., aka Davie Shipbuilding, has secured its first contract under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). The contract, awarded by the Canadian Government, involves the design of a six-ship fleet of Program Icebreakers – marking the initiation of Davie’s NSS work package aimed at overhauling Canada’s Arctic fleet.

Jean-Yves Duclos, Canada’s Minister of Public Services and Procurement (PSPC), highlighted that this contract brings the nation one step closer to equipping the Canadian Coast Guard with state-of-the-art Arctic ships.

Davie was named an official partner in Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) in April 2023. The initial project, worth $8.5 billion, includes the construction of seven heavy icebreakers and two hybrid-powered ferries.

“This is a momentous first step in our journey to deliver a fleet of the largest and most advanced icebreakers ever built in and for Canada,” said Davie President and CEO, James Davies. “My heartfelt thanks go to the dedicated teams at Davie, the Canadian Coast Guard and PSPC. They have spent countless hours preparing for this historic milestone. Now, we can’t wait to get working on renewing Canada’s Arctic fleet.”

As a part of this contract, Davie will set up a Program Icebreaker project management and design office. This will provide an excellent platform for current and upcoming generations of Canadian shipbuilders. The company is also committed to assembling highly skilled shipbuilding professionals who will oversee the construction of the world’s largest order book of heavy icebreakers.

Davie will also collaborate with subcontractors for design and certification of these vessels, meeting safety, environmental, and performance standards. Julian Kenney, Program Director for the Program Icebreakers at Davie, stated that designing and building Canada’s new icebreaker fleet signifies a source of pride for everyone at Davie.

“We have a strong partnership with the Canadian Coast Guard and our top priority is to design and build the icebreakers Canada needs to keep our waterways open, protect our environment, and secure the Arctic,” Kenney said.

Established in Québec, Canada in 1825, Davie’s portfolio includes icebreakers, ferries, and warships for governmental and commercial clients. The company is part of the Group Davie, which acquired icebreaker designer and constructor, Finland’s Helsinki Shipyard, in November 2023.

Davie joined Irving Shipbuilding Inc. in Nova Scotia and Seaspan Shipyards in Vancouver, British Columbia as the third official shipbuilding partner in the NSS program.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up