Algoma, Stigterstaal to supply steel plate for Canadian Coast Guard icebreakers

Algoma Steel and Stigterstaal Canada have been selected as the primary suppliers of steel plate for the construction of up to six multi-purpose icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard.

The agreement, announced by Seaspan Shipyards, is valued at approximately USD 130 mln and covers the supply of up to 24,000 tons of Canadian-made structural steel, equivalent to around 4,000 tons per vessel.

Algoma will produce the polar-class structural steel at its Sault Ste. Marie operations, while Stigterstaal will provide marine steel processing and supply-chain services.

The order is part of Seaspan's wider icebreaker programme under Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy. Algoma said the contract represents the largest order for polar-class steel in the history of its mill.

The multi-purpose icebreakers will be approximately 100 metres long with a displacement of nearly 9,000 tons. Designed for operations in Canada's Lower Arctic and offshore environments, the vessels will provide icebreaking, search and rescue, environmental response and maritime sovereignty capabilities.

Stigterstaal is a supplier and processor of steel products for the maritime and offshore industries. Algoma Steel is a Canadian flat steel producer, serving sectors including shipbuilding, energy, automotive and infrastructure.