Northern Sea Route (NSR) Corridor

The Northern Sea Route (NSR) is a shipping route that runs along the northern coast of Russia, connecting the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It is also known as the Northeast Passage. The route passes through the Arctic region and is significantly shorter than traditional shipping routes through the Suez Canal.

The Northern Sea Route becomes navigable during the summer months when ice conditions permit passage. The reduction of sea ice in the Arctic, attributed to climate change, has increased interest in the NSR as a potential alternative to existing shipping routes.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine (February 2022) and Western sanctions against Moscow, the NSR is important as a sea route for Russia, and potentially for China. It could become a leading trade corridor.