The Lider project to build a new-generation of Russian nuclear-powered icebreakers is expected to enter the design phase in 2016, Rosatom State Nuclear Energy Corporation Head Sergei Kiriyenko told RIA Novosti.

"The design of the next-generation Lider nuclear-powered icebreaker should begin in 2016," he said.

The new Russian nuclear-powered super icebreaker will be capable of operating year-around not only along the Northern Sea Route, but also in the Arctic's high latitudes. In 2015, the ship's schematic design was developed, and now the technical design is underway.

According to the President of the United Shipbuilding Corporation, Alexei Rakhmanov, "it'll take about 18 months to design the ship, after which we'll move towards a decision to fund the project."

Mr. Kiriyenko went on to say that the Lider project does not mean that 22220 series icebreakers will be discontinued.

"There should be as many icebreakers of this kind, as we need. It was called Lider for a reason, since it will be used for special tasks. If the current generation [Project 22220] can navigate ice three meters thick, Lider will be designed to force its way through ice four meters thick. These are unique features. We do not need many icebreakers of this kind, since they will be used for unique, one-time assignments," Kiriyenko said.