Xue Long 2, Chinas fi rst homemade polar research icebreaker, is launched in Shanghai on September 10.
After its expected delivery in 2019, the icebreaker will join the nations sole polar icebreaker in service, Xue Long, in conducting scientifi c expeditions. The new vessel is capable of breaking 1.5-meter-thick ice at speeds of 2-3 knots.