The ice-resistant self-propelled platform (ISP) Severny Polyus departed for its maiden voyage on 1 September, TASS reported, citing the press service of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade.

The new vessel will take the Severny Polyus 41 expedition to the Central Arctic, a continuation of the national programme of drifting polar stations established in 1937 by four polar explorers led by Ivan Papanin, the statement said.

Speaking about the uniqueness of the platform, Denis Manturov, Deputy Prime Minister and Head of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, underlined that it is capable of arriving at the site of the work without an icebreaker, drifting in the Arctic Ocean for up to two years and returning back to the port. According to him, the platform is designed to operate for 30–35 years, taking into account average repairs, so 'Russian polar explorers are provided with a reliable base until at least 2050.'

Igor Shumakov, head of Roshydromet, told journalists that the Severny Polyus platform will provide new opportunities for obtaining information about ice conditions along the North Sea Route (NSR). The information collected will allow for more accurate forecasting of changes in the Arctic Ocean and the development of the most convenient and safest routes for ships.