Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) has initiated the construction of the second Pohjanmaa-class multi-purpose corvette for the Finnish Navy. 

This is part of the Squadron 2020 project which aims to replace seven outdated vessels. The complete project is anticipated to be completed in 2029.  

RMC and its subsidiary, RMC Defence, are responsible for delivering four corvettes for the Finnish Navy. 

A steel cutting ceremony was held to mark the commencement of the construction phase. 

The multi-purpose corvettes will be designed to navigate the challenging conditions of the Baltic Sea. 

Designed to cruise at a speed of 26 knots (48km/h), the 117 metre (m) long ships feature a 16.5m beam, have a draught of 5m and can accommodate a crew of 70. 

RMC CEO and president Mika Nieminen said: “RMC has an agreement to build four multi-purpose corvettes for the Navy in co-operation with the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command. Established co-operation with the client ensures that the vessels will meet the future needs of the Navy.  

“During the construction of the first multi-purpose corvette, we did a great deal of development work that will greatly facilitate the construction of future vessels. Since we managed to get the construction of the second multi-purpose corvette underway already, I am pleased to say that we will be several weeks ahead of schedule.” 

Investments made by RMC to support the construction of the corvettes have included the creation of a dedicated closed hall for the project, ensuring safety and quality throughout the shipbuilding process.  

The project is expected to generate more than 3,600 person-years of direct employment in Finland. 

The Finnish Navy marked a milestone in 2023, with the steel cutting of the first Squadron 2020 multi-role corvette. 

This April, RMC also laid the keel for the country's first Squadron 2020 corvette.  

Rauma shipyard has constructed four Hamina-class vessels, two Hämeenmaa-class minelayers, four Rauma-class missile boats and more for the Finnish Navy.