On March 27, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Atomflot FSUE’s base in Murmansk, including the Marine Operations Headquarters of the Northern Sea Route (NSR) General Administration FSBI. The visit focused on Russia’s Arctic expansion, emphasising long-term planning, nuclear icebreaker projects, and youth engagement in Arctic exploration.

Putin held discussions with Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev, Acting Atomflot FSUE Director Yakov Antonov, and NSR General Administration FSBI Director Sergey Zybko. Sergey Zybko highlighted 50 ships currently navigating the NSR, with nine nuclear and non-nuclear icebreakers in operation. He also noted the worsening ice conditions, contradicting global warming narratives. Artificial intelligence (AI) is now employed to analyse satellite radar imagery for ice navigation.

Project 22220 nuclear icebreakers were a key discussion point. Alexander Skryabin, captain of Arktika, praised the improved maneuverability and efficiency of these new-generation icebreakers. Russia is currently constructing the Chukotka, Leningrad, and Rossiya icebreakers, with another unit, Stalingrad, set to be laid down. Likhachev emphasised that two more icebreakers are necessary for sustained NSR operations.

Putin also interacted with students from the Icebreaker of Knowledge programme, organised by Rosatom, who shared their experiences and career aspirations. The discussion highlighted the importance of Arctic education, scientific exposure, and fostering patriotism among Russian youth. Pavel Yakushev, a veteran and Rosatom advisor, recounted his North Pole expedition as part of the Time of Heroes program.

Strategic Arctic Development & Rosatom’s Role Rosatom, appointed as NSR infrastructure operator in 2018, oversees the federal project "Development of the Northern Sea Route", with a goal to establish a year-round transport corridor connecting Europe, Russia, and Asia-Pacific. In December 2024, the Great Northern Sea Route project was approved, further reinforcing Russia’s Arctic dominance.

Since 2019, Rosatom has organised Arctic expeditions, with over 350 gifted students participating. The 2024 expedition also included Time of Heroes presidential program participants, reinforcing national pride and scientific progress.

Rosatom remains a global leader in nuclear energy, with 39 nuclear power units under construction in 10 countries. It also leads sustainable development efforts, being Russia’s largest low-carbon electricity producer and a UN Global Compact member.

Future Prospects With a focus on nuclear icebreaker expansion, AI-powered navigation, and Arctic infrastructure, Russia is accelerating NSR development. The government’s long-term strategy aims to establish the NSR as a global maritime artery, further integrating it into the world’s trade and logistics networks.