Rauma Marine Constructions has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of the hull development for the Finnish Navy’s inaugural Pohjanmaa-class multi-purpose corvette. This development phase marks an important step in the broader initiative to modernize Finland’s naval capabilities, as the outfitting of the vessel is set to continue in the Satakunta region until its official induction later this spring.
In addition to the corvette hull, Rauma has also successfully produced a heavy-lift ramp and plans to extend its efforts towards constructing a submersible barge. These assets are crucial for facilitating the launch of the first Pohjanmaa-class corvette, underscoring the extensive planning and resource allocation involved in this naval project.
This milestone is part of a larger program initiated by Helsinki, aimed at constructing up to four advanced warships intended to replace the Finnish Navy’s aging fleet of anti-submarine and missile vessels. Rauma Marine Constructions is set to deliver all corvettes under this initiative by the year 2029, marking a significant upgrade to the nation’s maritime defense capabilities.
Production of the second Pohjanmaa-class system commenced in October 2024, indicating an ongoing commitment to enhancing naval operations. According to the Finnish Defence Forces, the ships are specifically designed to navigate and operate within the dynamic conditions of the Baltic Sea. They will be equipped for year-round naval operations, capable of engaging in a variety of missions that include maritime attack prevention, naval mine-laying, underwater warfare, and the security of maritime connections.
The Pohjanmaa corvette measures 17 meters (approximately 384 feet) in length and will be outfitted with an array of advanced weaponry and systems. This includes multi-domain missiles, remote weapon systems, automatic guns, torpedoes, and electronic warfare capabilities, enhancing the vessel’s operational versatility.
In terms of propulsion, the corvette will utilize a combined diesel-electric and gas engine, generating an impressive 38,000 horsepower. The design also incorporates twin bow thrusters and twin controllable pitch propellers, ensuring superior maneuverability. The ship can accommodate over 70 personnel along with a helicopter and other naval air solutions, which are crucial for its multi-dimensional operational capacity.
The Pohjanmaa-class corvette boasts an operational endurance of up to 14 days, a top speed of 26 knots (48 kilometers or 30 miles per hour), and a substantial range of 6,500 kilometers (approximately 4,039 miles). These specifications underscore the Finnish Navy’s commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities, ensuring readiness to respond to evolving security challenges in the region.
