I’m slightly confused by where the American’s (USA) come into this discussion.
Harry De Wolf is Canadian, Polar Star supports the US Antarctic stations.
A few other nations also operate out of Hobart at various times of year.
Royal New Zealand Navy Discussions and Updates
- Thread starter Padman
- Start date
Harry De Wolf is Canadian, Polar Star supports the US Antarctic stations.
A few other nations also operate out of Hobart at various times of year.
" Polar Star" is operated by the USCG and is used to provide maritime access to McMurdo Sound for both Us and Nz depots there.
"Polar Star" could be retired due to its age and if Nz choose to fill the breech and this suited both parties then the icebreaker could be based at Lyttleton.
As we live with uncertainty with Trump
Continually changing the boundaries it may be necessary for Nz to go alone.
Food for thought - we would be supporting our most dominant allie.
What capability does RNZN need and what capability does the Polar Star offer that isn't already in service?
RNZN needs to supply Scott base with access with bulk fuel; construction materials, large machinery and bulky items. Equipment needed in bulk for scientific use. The "Polar star" provides that access each year and stands by as required. If another vessel becomes ice.bound in the broader area it can assist in freeing up and expediting a safe exit. Providing access to marginal areas for scientific purposes.
The USCG has under construction two Polar Security Cutters, and is planning a third. These are to replace Polar Star and her long out of service sister, Polar Sea. So while NZ may well decide to acquire a high capacity ice breaker, it won’t be to provide a service to the. US by replacing Polar Star.
Last edited:
CJohn
Active Member
Yes Almirante Viel would be a good example. It is a Vard 9 series icebreaker design with long range and endurance, able to resupply NZ's Antarctic Islands, perform scientific operations for Government and act as a icebreaker if required in McMurdo Sound.
en.wikipedia.org
Chilean icebreaker Almirante Viel - Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org
Sad part about this version of ship was offered and feels like after SOPV was delayed if here are again repeating same history all over again.Yes Almirante Viel would be a good example. It is a Vard 9 series icebreaker design with long range and endurance, able to resupply NZ's Antarctic Islands, perform scientific operations for Government and act as a icebreaker if required in McMurdo Sound.
Chilean icebreaker Almirante Viel - Wikipedia
Thanks for the info - Just read about the PSC program and interim measures to sustain continuence.
Further - According to a USCG report released on April 16th, 2026. USCG announces homeporting of the first two Arctic security cutters in Alaska
with delivery by end of 2028. Finland will construct up to four and US shipyards up to seven more. Additional informatiion is provided within the article. So its "Gung ho"for the USCG.
Supporting the Icebreaker principal - both neighbours Australia and Chile have their own. The chilean navy t/s Esmeralda first visited Auckland in June 1961 and last visit departed Wellington on June 2012. At the time of this post at sea off chile.Yes Almirante Viel would be a good example. It is a Vard 9 series icebreaker design with long range and endurance, able to resupply NZ's Antarctic Islands, perform scientific operations for Government and act as a icebreaker if required in McMurdo Sound.
Chilean icebreaker Almirante Viel - Wikipedia