Aker Arctic to supply propellers and shaft lines to new Finnish Navy multi-role corvettes
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. According to the company’s press release, construction of the vessels is scheduled to begin in 2022 and the four-strong squadron will achieve operational readiness in 2028.
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.
Previously, Aker Arctic has supplied ice-strengthened stainless steel propellers to two Polar Class 3 Arctic module carriers delivered in 2016 and complete propulsion lines to the detachable icebreaking bow currently under final outfitting. In addition, the company has been developing bronze propellers for ice operations and supplied such propellers to be used in ASD tugs.
