Prime Minister Mark Carney has revealed that the federal government is set to inject $11.3 billion into Quebec’s shipbuilding sector to construct six new icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard. Describing it as the most substantial shipbuilding agreement in Quebec’s history, Carney highlighted that these new vessels will replace the existing heavy and medium icebreakers, as pledged back in 2019.
During the announcement at the Chantier Davie shipyard in Lévis, Que., Carney emphasized the project’s timeline, with the first steel cutting scheduled for next fall. He stated that the initial ship delivery is expected within five years, followed by the full fleet being operational five years thereafter. These icebreakers are intended to operate in various regions, including Atlantic Canada, the St. Lawrence River during winter, and the Arctic during summer.
Accompanied by Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette, Carney outlined the economic benefits of the contract, noting that it would safeguard Quebec’s economic independence and generate employment opportunities for skilled professionals like welders and technicians. The project is anticipated to create 5,000 jobs during the construction phase and aligns with the federal government’s “Buy Canadian” procurement policy, utilizing Canadian steel for the vessels.
The announcement coincides with recent trade tensions with the United States, as negotiations stalled and President Donald Trump threatened new tariffs on Canadian industries. In 2024, Ottawa initially awarded a $19.6 million contract to Davie under the national shipbuilding strategy to design the six new Polar Class 3 icebreakers. As part of a broader fleet modernization effort, the Canadian Coast Guard aims to receive a total of 88 new vessels by 2045 under the national shipbuilding strategy.
