The US is buying four icebreakers from Finland to strengthen its hold in the Arctic region. These special ships can sail through thick sea ice. Finland is the world leader in icebreaker technology. It designed 80% of all icebreakers now in use and built 60% in its shipyards. Finland faces extreme winters, and icebreakers keep its ports open. "Finland is an island," says Maunu Visuri, head of Finnish icebreaker operator Artica. Finnish firm Aker Arctic Technology is testing the next generation of icebreakers in Helsinki. The ships’ hulls are designed to bend ice downwards rather than cut it, explains CEO Mika Hovilainen. US President Donald Trump announced the purchase last October, calling Finland’s icebreakers "the finest in the world." Due to US law, naval ships must be built domestically. But Trump waived this for national security, citing threats from Russia and China. The US currently has only three icebreakers, while Russia operates around 40, including eight nuclear-powered ones. China is also increasing its polar-capable fleet. Finnish shipyard Rauma Marine Constructions will build two icebreakers in Finland, delivering the first in 2028. Four more will be built in Louisiana using Finnish designs. These "Arctic Security Cutters" will help the US secure emerging Arctic trade routes and resources amid climate change. Experts say icebreakers show a country’s power in the Arctic. "You cannot sail your aircraft carrier into the central Arctic Ocean," notes researcher Lin Mortensgaard. "Icebreakers are really the only kind of naval vessel to signal that you are an Arctic state." At Helsinki Shipyard, half the world's icebreakers have been built. The yard is busy with new projects for Canada and hopes for more US contracts. "The geopolitical situation has changed," says managing director Kim Salmi. "The US, Canada, and their allies are looking for balance." With over 100 years of experience, Finland remains the icebreaker superpower, leading the way in design, building, and operation.