July 9, 2013 Source: YLE Finnish Broadcasting Corp
Navy Commander: Minelayer for Sale
Finland is set to sell its flagship, the minelayer Pohjanmaa. Navy top brass say it may leave a gap in the Finnish fleet.
The navy’s commander-in-chief, Rear Admiral Veli-Jukka Pennala, confirmed the planned sale to Yle on Tuesday. The plan as it stands is to sell the ship, and if no buyer is found to place it in a museum.
The ship, which was constructed in 1978, will go out of service in 2015. Pennala is concerned that its absence might leave a gap in the military’s maritime capabilities.
“When you look at the Pohjanmaa, you would never believe that we’re giving it up,” said Pennala. “This is a well-maintained and it has a good crew. One could get a little wistful looking at it.”
The Pohjanmaa participated in anti-piracy operations off Somalia, intercepting and sinking one pirate launch. The vessel is currently in Kotka, where the navy is holding anniversary celebrations.
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