During the festive season of the Chinese New Year, the "Snow Dragon 2," embarking on China's 40th Antarctic exploration mission, is currently navigating the Southern Ocean. Concurrently, the original "Snow Dragon" vessel, having completed unloading operations at the Great Wall Station, has commenced comprehensive oceanic surveys and monitoring activities in the waters adjacent to the Antarctic Peninsula.
The "Snow Dragon 2," China's first independently built polar icebreaker, effortlessly navigates through 20-meter ice ridges and easily breaks through 1.5-meter thick ice layers and 0.2-meter thick snow, rightfully earning its status as a crucial asset for the nation.
The success of the "Snow Dragon 2" in smoothly sailing through the icy polar regions is closely tied to its innovative hull design. Featuring bi-directional propellers that can rotate 360 degrees, the ship exhibits enhanced maneuverability in ice, thus bolstering its ability to navigate through challenging conditions. Moreover, equipped with dual-axis dual-propeller systems, even if one encounters a malfunction, there's a backup, significantly reducing risks.
Measuring 122 meters in length with a displacement of approximately 14,000 tons, the "Snow Dragon 2" can accommodate 101 personnel. Despite its smaller displacement and shorter hull compared to its predecessor, the "Snow Dragon," its icebreaking capability has been elevated to PC3 level.
But what does PC3 level signify? Icebreaking capabilities of icebreakers are classified into seven categories, ranging from PC1 to PC7. PC1 represents the strongest icebreaking ability, while PC7 indicates the weakest. PC3, classified as medium-high ice class, can break through 1.5 meters of ice along with 0.2 meters of snow at a certain speed.
The "Snow Dragon 2" also holds the distinction of being the world's first polar research icebreaker to receive the Intelligent Ship notation. It can perceive real-time conditions regarding various loads on the hull, providing scientific decision-making support for navigating and operating in icy regions, and serving as a systematic data support platform for China's industry-wide ice load research efforts.
Purpose-built for scientific exploration, the "Snow Dragon 2" is equipped with physics laboratories, general laboratories, and a moon pool workshop. The physics laboratory serves as the core area for various experiments, with all types of experimental equipment accessible via screens. With comprehensive equipment related to oceanography and geology, the "Snow Dragon 2" facilitates a wide range of research activities.
Since the introduction of the "Snow Dragon 2," China's polar research endeavors have entered a new era of "Dual Dragon Exploration." While the "Snow Dragon" had been conducting annual Antarctic expeditions since 1994, sailing alone posed significant risks. With the addition of the "Snow Dragon 2," the two vessels have formed a synergistic fleet cooperation model. While the "Snow Dragon" focuses on transporting supplies and personnel, the "Snow Dragon 2" prioritizes scientific research. When both ships enter ice-covered areas, the "Snow Dragon 2" takes the lead with its strong icebreaking capabilities, clearing the path for the "Snow Dragon" and minimizing risks. Together, the two ships advance through the ice, complementing each other's efforts.
The "Double Dragon Probing the Poles" formation. Image Source: Ministry of Natural Resources
Compared to the latest generation of polar research icebreakers internationally, the Snow Dragon 2 pioneered bidirectional icebreaking and a submerged keel design among polar research icebreakers. It is the first to adopt intelligent hull and intelligent machinery room design, featuring Chinese characteristics while also meeting international advanced standards.
