ST. JOHN’S, NL — Qikiqtaaluk Horizon Arctic Services (QHAS) today welcomed the Polar Class 3 icebreaker, MSV Nordica, to Canada, marking a significant milestone in efforts to increase the Canadian Coast Guard’s operational capacity and strengthen Canada’s presence and readiness in the Arctic.
The vessel’s arrival brings an operational asset into Canadian waters under a charter awarded to QHAS through a procurement led by Public Services and Procurement Canada. It advances a first-of-its-kind partnership between an Inuit-led company and the Canadian Coast Guard, providing additional capacity for icebreaking and safe navigation in Canadian Arctic waters.
The arrival of the Nordica also demonstrates how Canada can draw on its existing strengths, including Inuit leadership, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador’s strategic position at the gateway to the North, maritime assets and expertise developed through complex offshore projects, to respond to emerging Arctic requirements.
Harry Flaherty, President and CEO, Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, declared: “This partnership with the Canadian Coast Guard demonstrates what is possible when Inuit leadership, industry expertise and Canadian capability come together. The Nordica brings world-class experience and additional capacity to the Arctic at an important time, as communities and industries across the North continue to grow.”
Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, through QHAS, is leading the effort to bring the fully crewed vessel from Finland, a NATO ally, to the Canadian Arctic. Nordica will work in co-ordination with the Canadian Coast Guard, providing additional icebreaking and navigation support in Canadian Arctic waters.
“The Canadian Coast Guard is pleased to partner with Qikiqtaaluk Horizon Arctic Services for this year’s Arctic operating season,” said Kevin Brosseau, Commissioner, Canadian Coast Guard. “The MSV Nordica will provide valuable additional icebreaking capacity that strengthens our ability to deliver on our expanded maritime security mandate while continuing to support essential services across Canada’s North. This partnership underscores the important role of Inuit leadership in Arctic marine operations and the value of strong collaboration with northern communities.”
The vessel will add heavy icebreaking capacity in Canadian Arctic waters during the 2026 operating season. This capacity will support safe navigation, Arctic shipping and the continued growth of the northern economy.
QHAS and its partners marked Nordica’s arrival with a welcome celebration in St. John’s on Friday, Sept. 4. The gathering included representatives from QHAS, Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, Horizon Group, Arctia, the Canadian Coast Guard, Public Services and Procurement Canada, Finnish government, local government and invited partner organizations.
(Photo from QHAS)