Finland’s shipbuilder Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) has launched the first Pohjanmaa-class multi-purpose corvette, built as part of the Finnish Navy’s Squadron 2020 programme.
The move marks a key step in the naval project, which is seen as central to Finland’s maritime defence strategy.
The construction of the Squadron 2020 vessels is progressing according to schedule, Rauma said.
RMC commenced construction on the second multi-purpose corvette in October 2024 with keel laid on 8 May 2025.
It said that the Squadron 2020 project is advancing according to its planned timeline. The construction rate is expected to increase as efforts continue on the second and subsequent multi-purpose corvettes. The project is projected to create a direct employment impact in Finland equivalent to over 3,600 person-years.
RMC CEO Mika Nieminen said: “We have increased the capacity of Rauma shipyard purposefully while strategically implementing significant investments in the shipyard area. Rauma shipyard is now in peak condition.”
“The building of these corvettes will advance the shipbuilding industry and technological know-how in Finland. RMC is ready to utilise the capabilities acquired through the Squadron 2020 project both in Finland and internationally,” Nieminen added.
A total of four Pohjanmaa-class corvettes are planned to be delivered to the Finnish Navy.
These vessels are engineered to remain operational throughout the year, regardless of Baltic Sea conditions.
RMC Squadron Project, project director Timo Ståhlhammar said: “The newly launched vessel is a strong indication of the close and goal-oriented co-operation between the Finnish Government, the Finnish Defence Forces, the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Institute, the Finnish Navy, Rauma Marine Constructions, Saab and all our industrial partners.”
The new corvette features a length of 117 metres (m), a beam of 16.5m, and a draught of 5m. Each vessel will operate with a crew of 70.
Rauma was selected for the Squadron 2020 project in September 2019.
Construction of the Pohjanmaa-class corvettes began in 2023, with the Squadron 2020 programme scheduled for completion by 2029.
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