In this episode of Threatscape Briefing, we examine Russia’s commissioning of the Ivan Papanin — the first of a new class of combat icebreakers. 

Unlike traditional scientific vessels, the Papanin is armed with naval guns, missile positions, advanced radar, and a helipad for anti‑submarine operations. 

Analysts warn that this marks a deliberate shift, enabling Moscow to project military power in ice‑covered waters where conventional warships cannot operate.

This development escalates the militarization of the Arctic, widens the capability gap with the United States, and complicates NATO deterrence as melting ice opens new shipping lanes and resource zones. 

The Arctic is no longer peripheral but on the frontline in great power competition.

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