Second multi-purpose corvette launched at Rauma shipyard

The second of four multi-purpose corvettes being built for the Finnish Navy was launched on Thursday at the Rauma Marine Constructions shipyard, according to Yle.

The first vessel in the series was launched exactly one year ago. Construction has begun on all four ships, which are scheduled for completion by 2029.

The acquisition and construction project, which dates back to preliminary work begun in 2008, fell behind schedule in its early phases, resulting in the corvettes being delivered about two years later than originally planned.

The new Pohjanmaa-class vessels will form the backbone of Finland’s maritime defence and are considered a central component of national naval capabilities, the Finnish Defence Forces have stated. They will be able to participate in joint alliance defence operations as well as support land and air defence missions.

The shipyard also opened its gates to the public on Thursday evening, with a capacity of 3,000 visitors. The event featured a performance by rapper Ahti. RMC has previously held similar open-house events, including when the Spirit of Tasmania V departed for its home port, drawing around 2,000 attendees.