Helsinki-class

Summary

Description

The Helsinki-class missile boat is a type of fast attack craft specifically designed for use by the Finnish Navy. The class comprises four vessels, all of which were constructed at the renowned Wärtsilä Helsinki Shipyard in Finland. After their completion, these ships were based out of Pansio, serving as their main homeport.

Originally designed as fast attack craft, these ships were later labeled as "missile boats" within the Finnish Navy to downplay their offensive capabilities. The vessels came equipped with a formidable array of armaments, including up to eight RBS-15 SSMs, which are surface-to-surface missiles, thereby enabling them to engage hostile targets effectively. The main gun system consisted of a dual-purpose Bofors 57 mm gun, suitable for targeting both surface and aerial threats. Additionally, the Helsinki-class boats were equipped with two SAKO 23 mm double-barreled anti-aircraft guns, providing a secondary line of defense against aircraft. Completing their array of weaponry were two depth charge racks intended for antisubmarine warfare.

Despite the initial success and capability of the fleet, the Helsinki-class missile boats faced budgetary restrictions in the late 1990s that impacted their operational status. They were scheduled to receive a mid-life upgrade between 2006 and 2008, but the plans were abandoned due to financial constraints. Subsequently, the ships were decommissioned from service in the Finnish Navy. Two of the decommissioned vessels, Helsinki and Turku, were utilized for testing purposes until they were dismantled in 2011.

However, the decommissioning in Finland did not mark the end of the line for the entire class. Two vessels found new life with the Croatian Navy after being sold for a sum of €9 million as part of a larger offset agreement related to Croatia's purchase of Patria AMV vehicles. These ships made their journey to Croatia, arriving on November 2, 2008. Before entering service in January 2009, the boats underwent a basic refit and a fresh coat of paint. As outlined by the Croatian Navy's plans, these transferred Helsinki-class boats are expected to remain in active service until the period of 2020 to 2022.

Technical specifications