Specialists from the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI have presented an intelligent route planning system for Arctic icebreakers. The development from the Faculty of Business Informatics and Management of Complex Systems was recognized at the All-Russian Engineering Competition 2025.
The system analyzes the state of the ice — its thickness, density, and direction of movement. The algorithm takes into account weather conditions, including wind force, air temperature, and visibility. The technical characteristics of the icebreaker itself are also considered — its power, draft, and ability to overcome ice conditions.
The basis is the Neo4j graph database management system, which processes all this information and calculates the most efficient route. A machine learning module is of particular value. It constantly improves the algorithm by studying the decisions made by experienced captains in similar situations. According to preliminary estimates, automation will help reduce the response time to emergencies by 15-20 percent. Additional benefits will include fuel savings and increased operational safety.
The project has already aroused interest from the engineering company "Hyperborea Bureau", which belongs to the icebreaker fleet. The official registration procedure for the database is currently underway. Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom, highly appreciated the importance of such developments. He noted that such projects make a significant contribution to strengthening the country's technological sovereignty and strengthen Russian positions in the Arctic region.
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