Russia is preparing for a large-scale program to update dredging equipment for work in the Arctic. According to the Aide to the President of the Russian Federation, Chairman of the Marine Board Nikolai Patrushev, from 2027, Rosatom, together with the Ministry of Transport, will begin construction of 24 domestic dredging vessels. Their operation will ensure the safety of navigation in the northern seas and the stable development of the Northern Sea Route.
Patrushev noted that Russia has the largest Arctic ports and the world's longest network of inland waterways, but the condition of the existing fleet is a cause for serious concern. Today, Rosmorrechflot and Rosmorport have 199 dredging vessels with an average age of 30–35 years, most of which are already obsolete both morally and physically.
Historically, the development of dredging equipment in the USSR took place within the framework of international cooperation among the CMEA countries. After the collapse of the system and the departure of Eastern European manufacturers, the industry in Russia actually stopped. Over the past 20 years, about 95% of dredging work has been carried out by foreign companies. However, after their departure from Russia, the problem of maintaining Arctic ports and shipping channels in a safe condition has worsened.
According to forecasts, the need for dredging work on the Northern Sea Route alone will be about 30 million cubic meters by 2030. To accomplish these tasks, at least 15 specialized vessels and auxiliary equipment will be required. In 2026, Rosatom plans to conduct development work to create new equipment adapted to Arctic conditions, and to begin serial construction as early as 2027.