Xue Long is a Chinese icebreaking research vessel.

"Xuelong 3": China’s Polar Research Flagship Advances Toward Global Leadership

As of December 2025, China’s first nuclear-powered icebreaker, Xuelong 3, remains under construction at Jiangnan Shipyard, with no launch or delivery date confirmed. Building on the legacy of Xuelong 1 (China’s inaugural polar research vessel) and Xuelong 2 (its first domestically built icebreaker), Xuelong 3 represents a third-generation leap, integrating nuclear propulsion and cutting-edge icebreaking technology to position China as a leader in polar science. 

I. Technological Breakthroughs: Nuclear Power and Unmatched Icebreaking

Xuelong 3 introduces transformative advancements: 

Nuclear Propulsion: Powered by a 60 MW small modular reactor (SMR) from CNNC, it generates 2.6x the shaft power of Xuelong 2 (23 MW via diesel engines). This enables 3-year continuous missions without refueling, zero emissions, and elimination of polar pollution from traditional fuel.

Extreme Icebreaking: Constructed with high-strength steel, it breaks 3-meter-thick ice (vs. 1.5 meters for Xuelong 2) and features 3.5-meter bidirectional icebreaking. Its PC2-rated podded propulsion system allows 360-degree rotation, outmaneuvering global peers in tight ice zones.

Smart Integration: A fully autonomous navigation system plans ice routes and avoids hazards. Its 1,000+ m² lab supports multidisciplinary research (deep-sea, sub-ice, atmospheric), boosting efficiency by 50% over predecessors.

II. Construction Progress: Modular Precision and Key Tests

Since mid-2024, construction has focused on: 

Modular Hull Assembly: Divided into 300+ prefabricated modules, key sections (reactor compartment, icebreaker bow) are now joined, revealing the ship’s outline.

Nuclear Integration: The SMR undergoes -50°C cold tests and vibration resistance trials (simulating icebreaking impacts). Propellers, precision-machined to millimeter accuracy, ensure efficiency in thick ice.

Polar Adaptation: Anti-icing hull coatings, heated deck equipment, and airtight living quarters (withstanding Category 12 storms) prepare it for extreme conditions.

III. Strategic Impact: Science, Resources, and Global Influence

Xuelong 3 will redefine China’s polar role: 

Scientific Frontiers: Enables research in 6,000+ meter deep seas and 3-meter ice-covered zones, advancing geological, biological, and climate studies critical for global warming models.

Arctic Route Dominance: The Northern Sea Route (China-Europe) cuts travel time by 40%. Xuelong 3 will escort commercial vessels, explore resources, and reduce reliance on Russian icebreakers, securing China’s stake in Arctic governance.

Geopolitical Clout: With unmatched capabilities, China will shape international polar rules, lead research collaborations, and influence resource allocation.

IV. Timeline: 2027 Delivery Speculated, Pending Tests

While no official dates exist, industry projections suggest: 

2026: Hull and reactor installation complete; outfitting begins (equipment, interiors).

2027: Sea trials assess nuclear safety and icebreaking performance in polar conditions.

2028: If approved, enters service, forming a dual-pole fleet with Xuelong 2.

Note: Nuclear safety standards may extend timelines.

V. Future Vision: China’s Polar Network

Xuelong 3 marks China’s shift from participant to pioneer. Its tech will elevate civilian shipping and deep-sea exploration. Paired with drones, underwater robots, and Xuelong 2, it will anchor a “sky-sea-ice” observation network, offering global solutions for polar conservation. 

VI. Aligning with National Strategy: SMEOCEAN Advances Polar Anchor Chain Technologies

As a professional anchor chain manufacturer, SMEOCEAN has proactively seized strategic opportunities in China’s polar exploration initiatives, focusing on R&D of anchor chains for extreme cold environments. Through sustained investments in optimizing material low-temperature resilience and conducting simulated tests under harsh conditions, we are progressively addressing critical technical challenges—such as embrittlement and impact resistance below -50°C—to deliver tailored anchor chain solutions for the Xuelong series research vessels and future polar-capable ships. 

Conclusion:

As of December 2025, Xuelong 3 symbolizes China’s ambition to lead polar science. With nuclear power and icebreaking prowess, it continues the legacy of Xuelong 1 and 2, propelling China to the forefront of global polar governance. Official updates will follow as construction progresses.

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