Canadian Coast Guard Medium Interim Icebreakers

Icebreakers are an essential component of the Canadian Coast Guard fleet and are fundamental to ensure safe navigation, prevent ice jams and flooding, and maintain shipping routes in Canadian waters. From December to May, Coast Guard icebreakers operate in Atlantic Canada, on the St. Lawrence River, and the Great Lakes. They also operate in the Arctic from May to November to ensure safe navigation in Arctic waters and facilitate the escort of ships to resupply and refuel northern communities. In addition to icebreaking, these vessels are equipped to support other Coast Guard programs such as search and rescue, aids to navigation and environmental response.