A completely new and symbolic event took place in the history of the Russian nuclear fleet. For the first time, a woman has been entrusted with the position of captain of a nuclear icebreaker. According to information published by "RBC," this honorable and highly responsible position has been assigned to Marina Starovoitova. Now she commands one of the largest icebreakers in the world — the nuclear icebreaker "Yamal."
"Yamal" is truly considered a unique vessel. Equipped with two nuclear reactors, this giant liner has a power of 75,000 horsepower. It was built in 1992 at the Baltic Shipyard in St. Petersburg as part of the "Arctic" project. Its technical specifications are impressive: a displacement of 23,000 tons, a length of 147 meters, and a width of nearly 30 meters. Thanks to its special 48-millimeter steel hull, "Yamal" can easily break through even the hardest and thickest ice. The vessel’s main mission is to ensure navigation along the Northern Sea Route and to operate under Arctic conditions.
Marina Starovoitova’s personal journey deserves special attention. In 2005, she began working in the fleet, initially on the nuclear container carrier "Sevmorput." Originally, she worked in a completely different field — as a teacher of Russian language and literature. Later, however, she moved into the maritime industry, combining practical work with studies. In 2014, she obtained her diploma as a navigator.
Over the years, she has risen step by step from sailor to senior officer in the merchant fleet. Now, Marina Starovoitova has taken her rightful place in history as the first female captain of a nuclear icebreaker.
Experts assess this event not only as a personal achievement, but also as an important step for the entire maritime industry. It is especially emphasized that women are reaching high positions even in areas traditionally dominated by men, which carries significant social importance.
Undoubtedly, Marina Starovoitova’s name will now be written not only in the history of the Russian fleet, but also in the world history of navigation.
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