Steerprop completes propulsion thruster package for new Polarstern II icebreaker

Steerprop has secured an additional thruster order from TKMS, completing the propulsion thruster package for the new German research icebreaker Polarstern II. The latest contract covers two SP 40 TT ARC tunnel thrusters, supplementing an earlier order for two SP 160 Pull azimuth thrusters and hydrodynamic shaftline integration.

The award makes Polarstern II the first Polar Class 2 icebreaker to have main propulsion, tunnel thrusters and hydrodynamic integration supplied by a single manufacturer. Yngvar Frodell, Polarstern II project director at TKMS, said: “Steerprop’s integrated propulsion approach and their capability to meet stringent ice-class and noise specifications made them a natural fit for this project.”

The tunnel thrusters are designed for heavy ice operation and to meet strict underwater radiated noise limits under ICES 209 requirements. Noise mitigation focuses on propeller design, tunnel optimisation and structural integration, with flexible mountings used to reduce vibration transmission to the hull.

The vessel is being built for the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research. Detlef Wilde, Polarstern II project director at the institute, said: “Reliable, quiet and efficient propulsion is essential for our research missions.” Thruster deliveries are scheduled for 2027. The vessel will be approximately 160m long with a gross tonnage of about 26,300 tons.