It is interesting knowing that the KRASIN/JERMAK-class from Wärtsilä in Helsinki is still almost 25 years after delivery, the largest diesel-electric icebreakers in the world except for the huge atomic icebreakers of the Russian State, the six units of the ARKTIKA-class (six ships built at BZ 1974-2007) and the VAJGATCH/TAJMYR-class of 1988-1989.

Many think that the JERMAK class are also the most beautiful icebreakers built - there is some truth in that too - smooth and elegant lines, but they looked better in Soviet colours, with full black hull and white superstructure at delivery.

Kindest,
JOHAN de NAUCLER
Maritime historian, Uppsala;Sweden