They are the first full developments of the double acting ship concept and among the first icebreakers equipped with Azipods, electric azimuth thrusters manufactured by ABB.

[5] Arcticaborg has a diesel-electric powertrain with two six-cylinder Wärtsilä 6L26 4-stroke medium-speed diesel engines, each with a maximum continuous rating of 1,950 kilowatts (2,610 hp), driving van Kaick DGS generators rated 2,250 kVA at 690 V. According to the power plant principle, the main generators in the forward engine room provide electrical power for all shipboard consumers, including propulsion.

For emergency and harbour use, the ship also has Valmet 612 diesel engines, rated at 130 kilowatts (170 hp), coupled to 163 kVA alternators.

[8] Arcticaborg was among the first icebreakers fitted with Azipod units that allow the ship to operate astern in heavy ice conditions with excellent maneuverability.

[7] However, the bow is designed primarily with good seakeeping and open water characteristics in mind, and in heavy ice conditions the ship is turned around and operated stern first.

[5] The ships were placed under long-term charter by Offshore Kazakhstan International Operating Company (OKIOC), a consortium which includes Royal Dutch Shell.

[5] Following the discovery of the Kashagan Field in July 2000, Arcticaborg and Antarcticaborg began operating for Agip KCO in the Northern Caspian Sea where the water depth is only 4–7 metres (13–23 ft) and the ice conditions are particularly difficult.

[11] In 2000, dedicated ice-strengthened barges, pushed or towed by the icebreaking supply ships, were developed and constructed to allow uninterrupted cargo transportation to and from the platforms year round.