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Launching and baptism of the future ORP Swallow
Author:Mariusz Dasiewicz
Today, on June 26, a ceremony of launching and baptism of the future ORP Swallow destroyer (604) was held at the Shipbuilding Repair Yard in Gdańsk. It is the fourth Kormoran II-type vessel, designed to search for and neutralize marine mines in the Baltic and North Sea waters.
Among those gathered at the ceremony were Jacek Siewara, head of the National Security Bureau, who reported that command of the armed forces is undergoing reform and soon Polish Navy The Republic of Poland will be able to report to the Naval Commander. Also present was the president of the Remontowa shipyard, Dariusz Jaguszewski, who stressed in his interview with PAP: "It is no longer just a mine destroyer, but a multitasking unit with a very broad spectrum of action".
"Fly on the seas and oceans of the world, famous name of Polish shipbuilder and Polish sailor. I give you the name Swallow" – in these words the godmother of the individual, Mrs Margaret Zdonek, wife of the former commander 8. The Coast Defence Fleet counter Admiral Krzysztof Zdonk officially christened the latest destroyer of the mines of the Polish Navy.
This ceremony represents another important step in the implementation of the program of modernization of the Polish Navy, which began with the cutting of sheets on 28 March 2023. Launching ORP Swallow emphasises the success of the shipbuilding consortium, which includes PGZ Stocznia Wojenna, Shipbuilding and Marine Research and Development Centre.
This is also proof that the construction of warships and modernization of the Polish Navy can continue despite political divisions in our country. We hope that this will be a perfect example for politicians when implementing the MEASURANT programme.
The Kormoran II type mine destroyers are characterized by advanced technology and modern equipment, including hydrolocation systems and unmanned underwater vehicles for the detection and destruction of mines. The hull of the ship, divided into nine watertight compartments, provides high resistance to damage. The unit's drive is made up of two MTU engines that drive the Cyclooid Voith Turbo propulsors, providing both the drive and the precise control of the ship.
Kormoran II ships are also equipped with a modern weapon system for self-defense, including the AM-35 marine cannon and remotely controlled submarines for destruction of mines. ORP Swallow, together with other units, will strengthen the capabilities of the Polish Navy in the field of mine-based operations, providing significant support to NATO . This unit was built of a magnetic steel, which is a unique technological solution in Polish shipbuilding.
The construction and launching of subsequent ships of this type is an important step towards the technical modernization of the Polish naval forces and increasing their operational capacity. New mine destroyers, supported by modernised trawlers, will provide Poland with modern and effective mine-based forces.
Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz
