Krasnaya Kuznitsa Ferries: Icebreaking River Vessels Near Completion

Krasnaya Kuznitsa, a subsidiary of Russia's state-owned United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC), is nearing completion of two purpose-built icebreaking river ferries designed for passenger and cargo operations between Arkhangelsk and Onega in Russia's northern maritime region. The vessels, named Solvychegodsk and Onega, represent the first in the Project REGK.126 series and mark a significant modernization of Russia's river transport infrastructure, replacing older repurposed tugboats with modern, ice-reinforced displacement vessels.

Construction commenced under a contract awarded in December 2021, with support from Russia's Ministry of Industry and Trade. First deliveries are scheduled for spring 2025, with local authorities in Arkhangelsk and Onega expressing optimism that the new ferries will enhance safety and reliability for passengers and cargo operators in one of Russia's most challenging maritime environments.

Vessels

• Names: Solvychegodsk and Onega
• Operator: Krasnaya Kuznitsa (USC subsidiary)
• Type: Icebreaking river ferries (Project REGK.126)
• Length: 28 metres (93 ft)
• Beam: 7 metres (22 ft)
• Draught: 2.3 metres (7.5 ft)
• Service speed: 12 knots (22 km/h)
• Flag/Registry: Russia

Route

• Arkhangelsk to Onega, northern Russia
• Designed for year-round operation in harsh winter conditions

The new ferries feature modern hull designs and robust ice reinforcements, enabling consistent service even during severe winter conditions. By adopting displacement-vessel technology rather than hovercraft, the vessels offer improved reliability and efficiency for both passenger and cargo transportation. The propulsion systems are engineered to maintain steady service speed across challenging northern river routes.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• Not applicable (construction project; no incident).

Both vessels are in advanced stages of construction and nearing completion. First deliveries are scheduled for spring 2025. The project represents a substantial advancement in Russia's northern river transport infrastructure and demonstrates the state's commitment to modernizing passenger and cargo services in one of the world's most demanding maritime environments.