Metal structures will facilitate housing and social infrastructure construction in Russia’s Arctic Regions

On March 26–27, 2025, the International Arctic Forum “ARCTIC – Territory of Dialogue” took place in Murmansk. During the business session “The Arctic and the Northern Sea Route: Developing Key Settlements,” Alexander Danilov, Director General of Steel Construction Development Association (ARSS), addressed the forum participants. He highlighted methods to accelerate construction in the Arctic zone and emphasized the advantages of steel-based building technologies, which could serve as a driver for developing key settlements in the Far North.

“In some northern regions, the construction season lasts only two to three months. Under such conditions, speed of construction while maintaining high quality becomes paramount,” stated Alexander Danilov. “Steel frame technology enables buildings to be erected 30% faster compared to traditional methods.”

Unlike other materials, steel structures can be assembled in extreme low-temperature conditions, as the process shifts from on-site construction to the assembly of prefabricated factory-made components. This approach also reduces the number of workers required on-site by 20%.

Construction timelines are shortened because nearly complete structures are delivered to the site and assembled like a construction set. This technology can be applied to both residential buildings and social infrastructure facilities.

“Construction in the Arctic involves significant distances from manufacturing plants. Materials must be delivered by air or water transport. The use of high-strength steel reduces the weight of structures, thereby lowering transportation costs. Implementing steel structures in Arctic construction can cut logistics expenses by 12%,” Mr. Danilov noted.

By reducing logistics costs and decreasing foundation volume by 30% (thanks to the lighter overall weight of buildings), steel frame technology offers substantial cost savings for clients. Experts point out that ferrous metals are particularly well-suited for constructing buildings in the Far North.

Earlier, at a meeting on the development of Arctic support settlements, Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed that comprehensive growth in Arctic cities requires not only new housing but also social infrastructure: schools, kindergartens, and medical facilities. He emphasized that construction must adhere to updated standards and incorporate modern efficient technologies, such as steel frame construction.