Norwegian Coastguard’s First Icebreaker

KV Svalbard, the new coastguard vessel that was recently delivered to the Norwegian Navy, is the first Norwegian arctic coastguard vessel with ice-breaking capabilities – a ship that can operate in ice thickness of up to 1 metre. It is also the first Norwegian naval vessel to be built to DNV class. KV Svalbard is 103 metres long and has a displacement of 6,500 tonnes. In addition to its hull, marine systems and machinery meeting DNV’s requirements, the ship is capable of carrying out ice-breaking operations in Norway’s northernmost areas and has equipment to prevent it from being ice-bound.

With its helideck and hangar enabling it to have a helicopter on board, and its ability to carry out fire-fighting operations, this is an advanced ship that has been a challenging job for both DNV and Langsten Slip & Båtbyggeri, the shipbuilders in Tomrefjord (Norway). Despite the many challenges involved the deadlines and limits stipulated have been complied with. KV Svalbard was delivered on time, within budget and in compliance with the quality demanded by DNV’s rules. While KV Svalbard is the first Norwegian naval vessel to be built to DNV class, both the Danish and British navies have transferred some of their ships to DNV class.