2 Finnish Helsinki Class FACs to Croatia

Croatia(click to view full) by Igor Tabak Croatia’s famous Adriatic coastline is warmer than Finland’s, but its geography of long coastlines and near-shore islands in a narrow body of water lends itself to similar naval solutions and requirements. On July 17/08 Croatia purchased two Fast Attack Craft (FACs) vessels from Finland, which are well suited to near shore and coastal patrol. Croatian Minister of Defense Branko Vukelicand “Patria Aviation Oy” representatives Ilkka Jaakkola and Risto Marjomaa signed the actual contract on the purchase of 300t Helsinki Class FACs Oulu (62) and Kotka (63) in Zagreb. Ownership of these vessels has now been transferred. This naval acquisition was not foreseen in the list of goals stated within its “Armed forces long term development plan 2006-2015”. As such, it can be seen as a opportunity seized. That is also the view brought forth by the Croatian authorities. Croatian Defense Minister Vukelic stated that Patria’s representatives recently informed the Croatian authorities of the possibility, and due consideration found the 2 vessels to be highly compatible with the FACs already in Croatian naval service. * The Vessels * Technology Similarities * New Technologies for Croatia * The Deal * Conclusion * Updates and Events […]