On 26th September 2019, the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command and Aker Arctic Technology Inc signed a contract for the design, delivery and integration of complete propulsion lines to four Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvettes for the Finnish Navy. Construction of the vessels is scheduled to begin in 2022 and the four-strong squadron will achieve operational readiness in 2028.
Aker Arctic is a private Finnish company specializing in development, design, engineering, consulting and testing services for ice-going vessels, icebreakers, offshore marine structures, marine transport solutions and ports.
Aker Arctic’s scope of delivery includes ice-strengthened controllable pitch propellers and their pitch control mechanisms, propeller shafts, bearings and shaft seals. In addition to complete design, calculations and material supplies, Aker Arctic will be responsible for installation supervision and commissioning of the propulsion lines.
Aker Arctic has been developing the propulsion line in co-operation with the Finnish Defence Forces since 2015 to ensure that the new multi-role corvettes will meet the demanding operational performance requirements of the Finnish Navy. An essential part of this development is matching the propeller with the hull to achieve high open water speed, ice-going capability and low underwater noise levels.
In April, Saab was selected as the preferred bidder for the development and delivery of combat systems. The vessels will be equipped with ESSM surface to air missiles, Gabriel V anti-ship missiles and Torpedo 47 torpedoes.
On 26 September Saab received an order to provide and integrate the combat system for the Pohjanmaa-class corvettes.
