Canada Awards $11.3 Billion Icebreaker Contract at Quebec Shipyard
PM Carney announces $11.3B icebreaker deal at Davie shipyard in Lévis, joined by Quebec Premier Frechette and federal ministers.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a C$11.3 billion contract for the construction of icebreakers at the Davie shipyard in Lévis, Quebec, on Monday, August 24, 2026. The announcement marks one of the largest federal investments in Canada's polar fleet capabilities in recent years.
Carney was joined at the shipyard by Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, as well as Quebec Premier Christine Frechette. Bernard Drainville, Quebec's Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy and Minister Responsible for Maritime Strategy, was also present for the announcement.
The contract is expected to bolster Canada's sovereign capacity to operate in Arctic waters, a strategic priority given the region's growing geopolitical and economic significance. The Davie shipyard, located across the St. Lawrence River from Quebec City, has long been a key player in Canadian shipbuilding.
The event underscored the federal government's collaboration with Quebec on major industrial projects, with provincial leaders in attendance to signal support for the initiative. Details on the timeline for construction and the number of vessels to be built were not disclosed in the announcement.