Russian icebreaker to rescue U.S. base

Russian icebreaker to rescue U.S. base

Washington Times, Jan 7

A Russian icebreaker sent to rescue a U.S. Antarctic base is halfway there, Interfax news agency reported Thursday.

The icebreaker Krasin left Vladivostock on Russia's Pacific coast on Dec. 21 and is scheduled to rendezvous with an American icebreaker on the outer edge of the Antarctic ice pack on Jan. 20, Interfax said. The two ships will then seek to rescue the McMurdo research base.

The base at McMurdo Sound is the main scientific base of the Antarctica program of the U.S. National Science Foundation. The Krasin will clear the way for cargo ships carrying fuel, food and medicines. Otherwise the McMurdo station personnel would have to be evacuated, Interfax said. The rescue operation was requested by the U.S. government.

Traditionally, two icebreakers of the U.S. Coast Guard, Polar Sea and Polar Star, cater to the needs of the McMurdo station. However, their capacity is several times smaller than that of the Krasin and one of them is currently being repaired, the news agency said.
http://washingtontimes.com/upi-breaking/20050106-091148-8848r.htm

and we can't even get out of port.

russia. They have more ice. :)

http://www.quarkexpeditions.com/arctic/deck_yamal_np05.shtml



NUCLEAR ICEBREAKER YAMAL

One of the world's most powerful and sophisticated ships.

With a displacement of 23,000 tons, 75,000 total horsepower and an armour steel icebreaker hull no less than 48mm thick, the Yamal is among the world's most powerful and sophisticated ships. Designed as a working vessel to keep shipping lanes open along Russia's Northern Sea Route, the Yamal is more than capable of rising to the challenge of the heaviest ice. The ship is a model of technology - and of passenger comfort. One of five icebreakers in this class operated by the Murmansk Shipping Company, the Yamal has taken adventurous travelers to the North Pole since 1993.

I didnt know there were any nuclear powered non-combat ships.

Length 150m / 490.62ft
Breadth 30m / 98.12ft
Draft 11.08m / 36.24ft
Displacement 23000
Propulsion Two steam turbines driving 6 generators, 75.000 total hp
Cruising Speed 20 knots
Range Approx. 4 years
Crew 150
Passengers 100
Registry Russia

about modern ships, that might create some mighty strange images in one's mind. :think: :nuke:

:)

but can they go to New Zealand?

Ah, better to fly. I hear those Airlines Down Under are pretty liberal with the well aged fruit of the vine.