China builds world's biggest icebreaker fleet in Arctic power play

Source: ft.com

China has rapidly expanded its icebreaker fleet to become the global leader, outpacing traditional polar powers like Russia and the US. The country now has six icebreakers, two of which are nuclear-powered, enabling year-round Arctic operations. This buildup supports Beijing's "Polar Silk Road" strategy for trade and resources. It matters because it boosts China's influence in melting Arctic waters, where new shipping lanes and minerals are opening up amid climate change.