The service will connect Ningbo, China, with Felixstowe, UK, through the Northern Sea Route along Russia’s Arctic coast. Melting Arctic ice caused by climate change is also making the route more accessible to ships without requiring icebreaker capabilities. Arctic sea ice decreased by 5.8% between 2024 and 2025 during the peak winter period. The Arctic route has gained importance as global tensions rise, particularly because of crises affecting the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Permits to travel through the route are often issued by the Northern Sea Route Administration, which is controlled by Russia’s Rosatom.