New era for the Finnish navy: Pohjanmaa-class corvette launched in Rauma

A major milestone was reached in Finland’s naval modernization program as the Finnish navy launched its first Pohjanmaa-class corvette in the city of Rauma. This event marks the beginning of a new era under the strategic Squadron 2020 (Laivue 2020) program, aimed at transforming Finland’s maritime defense capabilities.

Kamil Kusier executive editor 30.05.2025, 08:48 Reading time: 2 min

Grey warship in a dry dock beneath shipyard cranes marked Rauma Marine Constructions — fot. Merivoimat

In brief

The corvette Pohjanmaa, the first of four vessels of the Laivue 2020 programme carried out by the Rauma Marine Constructions shipyard, was launched in Rauma, Finland. The corvette is 117 metres long, displaces about 3,900 tonnes, has CODLAG propulsion and a top speed exceeding 26 knots, and its armament will include PTO2020 Gabriel missiles, the Sea Sparrow ITO20 system, Torped 47 torpedoes and a 57 mm BAE Bofors gun. Sea trials are scheduled for 2026, delivery to service for 2027, and the remaining corvettes are to join the fleet by 2029. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen attended the launch.

Squadron 2020 – core of Finland’s future naval defense

The Laivue 2020 initiative is the Finnish navy’s most significant naval procurement in decades, executed by domestic shipbuilder Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC). The program entails the construction of four advanced multi-role surface combatants designed to replace the aging Rauma-class fast attack craft and Hämeenmaa-class minelayers.

Engineered for year-round operations in the demanding conditions of the northern Baltic Sea, the new vessels will be capable of a wide spectrum of missions—from national defense and maritime patrol to NATO-led allied operations.

Pohjanmaa-class corvette – modern, capable, adaptable

The Pohjanmaa-class corvettes emphasize versatility, survivability, and modern naval combat capability. Measuring 117 meters in length with a displacement of approximately 3,900 tons, the vessels are optimized for performance in rough seas and harsh weather. A CODLAG (combined diesel-electric and gas) propulsion system provides fuel-efficient cruising as well as high-speed maneuverability, with top speeds exceeding 26 knots.

Planned armament and onboard systems include:

PTO2020 Gabriel anti-ship missiles
ITO20 Evolved Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missile system
Torpeda 47 lightweight anti-submarine torpedoes
BAE Bofors 57 mm automatic naval gun
Advanced electronic warfare, minelaying, and self-defense systems

Industrial and strategic impact

Construction of the first corvette began in 2023. The vessel is now undergoing outfitting and harbor trials, with sea trials slated for 2026 and delivery expected in 2027. The remaining three ships will be delivered progressively through 2029.

The program also delivers substantial economic benefits: an estimated 3,600 person-years of employment and broad participation from Finnish subcontractors, strengthening the domestic defense and shipbuilding industry.

Enhancing Baltic security posture

The launching ceremony was attended by key Finnish leaders, including Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen. Both officials emphasized the critical role of Squadron 2020 in enhancing regional deterrence and defense in the evolving Baltic security landscape, especially following Finland’s recent accession to NATO.

Rear Admiral Tuomas Tiilikainen, Commander of the Finnish Navy, described the new corvettes as "the operational backbone of the Finnish navy for decades to come."

Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier