Rauma shipyard optimistic about future military vessel orders in Finland

Stig Gustavson, chairman of Rauma Marine Constructions, has a positive outlook on the future of the Rauma shipyard. He notes that there is a long list of potential clients, although many projects are still in the preliminary negotiation stages. The discussions prominently feature military ships, as the shipyard is currently working on a series of them. The Finnish Defense Forces have ordered four military vessels from Rauma. Construction of the first multi-purpose corvette for the Squadron 2020 project began last autumn.

According to RMC’s CEO, Mika Nieminen, there is a growing demand for military vessels capable of operating in winter conditions. “It is more than likely that our technical expertise will be needed beyond our borders,” Nieminen remarked. He pointed out that with military ship production ramping up, now is an ideal time to consider what could be offered to NATO partners. However, he stressed that commercial shipyards cannot negotiate directly for military orders, as discussions occur at the state level. Nieminen assured that NATO partners are interested in Rauma’s specialized skills.

Currently, construction is progressing well, even though it is two years behind the original schedule. Gustavson explained that planning faced challenges due to ongoing additions to the orders and the new type of ships being built, which have not been constructed before. The hull of the first military vessel is nearing completion. “Once the ship is ready after the turn of the year, military equipment will be installed. That part is no longer our responsibility,” Gustavson added.