FOOTAGE has been circulating social media of an allision between a Russian nuclear icebreaker and a freighter in the Kara Sea, north of Russia.
The footage reportedly shows the bow of nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy (50 Years of Victory in English) impacting the stern of the freighter, reportedly named Yamal Krechet as it sails through icy waters.
The incident reportedly occurred on 26 January while 50 Let Pobedy was attempting to free the 20,144 dwt bulker from the ice, oversea media has reported.
Despite claims that the allision caused damage to the icebreaker’s port bow above the water line, Russian media reported that no one was injured, and that seaworthiness has not been lost.
50 Let Pobedy is one of six first-generation Arktika-class icebreakers designed in the later days of the Soviet Union, prior to its collapse.
The vessel was launched in 1993, but due to economic factors was only finished in 2007. Only two vessels of her class remain in service, with a new class, also named Arktika-class, reportedly entering service to replace them.
50 Let Pobedy’s reactors are reportedly located at its aft, with the damage occurring at the bow of the vessel.
