The first plates are scheduled to be shipped to Lévis in the coming weeks, with construction of the ship set to begin shortly thereafter.
This development is seen as part of Davie's goal to support domestic production and strengthen the national shipbuilding supply chain. Since 2022, the company has been working on domestic steel solutions under the Polar Max Program in collaboration with Algoma Steel, Stigterstaal Canada, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, and other Canadian partners.
Awarded to Davie in March 2025 under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the Polar Max project will be among the world's most powerful and advanced conventional heavy icebreakers when delivered in 2030. Once in service, the vessel will enhance Canadian Coast Guard operations in the Arctic, increase marine emergency response, support scientific research, and facilitate the transport of goods and services to northern communities.
The collaboration between Davie and Algoma Steel is being carried out in accordance with the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and the Buy Canadian Policy. The partnership contributes to the creation of a strong national supply chain based on local expertise and innovation capacity.
Davie CEO James Davies stated that they are proud to build one of the world's most advanced icebreakers by maximizing the strength of Canada's manufacturing infrastructure. Algoma Steel CEO Rajat Marwah said that the use of Canadian-made steel in strategic projects such as defense and shipbuilding strengthens the country's industrial base.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said the start of Canadian steel production demonstrates how a domestic supply approach supports industry and employment. Minister of Government Transformation, Infrastructure, and Procurement Joël Lightbound also emphasized that using Canadian-made steel in major ship projects increases production capacity and supply chain resilience.
Ontario Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth George Pirie noted that such partnerships ensure Ontario steel plays a greater role in national projects. Sault Ste. Marie MP Terry Sheehan said the project is of great importance to the regional economy and Canada's Arctic capacity.
Operating in Quebec since 1825, Davie is among the world's leading companies in the design and production of specialized vessels such as icebreakers, ferries, and warships. The company joined Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy in 2023 and undertook the construction of seven heavy icebreakers and two hybrid ferries as part of the first $8.5 billion contract package.
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