Poland Launches Sixth Kormoran II-Class Minehunter ORP Czajka

Poland has taken another significant step in strengthening its Baltic Sea defenses with the launch of ORP Czajka, the sixth Kormoran II-class mine countermeasures vessel (MCMV), at Remontowa Shipbuilding in Gdańsk. The launch, announced on December 11, 2025, by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, underscores the momentum of Poland’s long-term naval modernization strategy and the growing maturity of its domestic shipbuilding industry.

A Strategic Addition to Poland’s Baltic Fleet

The ceremony, attended by senior Polish Navy leaders, engineers, and officials from the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), celebrated not only the vessel’s entry into the water but also the continued success of the Kormoran II program—one of the most ambitious indigenous naval projects undertaken in Poland since the end of the Cold War.

Kosiniak-Kamysz described the launch as “an important stage for the Navy and the entire national defense system,” emphasizing that the construction of Czajka and its sister ships strengthens Poland’s readiness in the increasingly contested Baltic maritime domain.

With tensions rising across the region, increased Russian naval movements, and growing concerns about underwater sabotage targeting critical energy and communication infrastructure, mine countermeasure forces are becoming central to NATO’s operational posture in the Baltic.

Cutting-Edge Capabilities for Modern Mine Warfare

Built from non-magnetic austenitic steel, ORP Czajka is engineered to operate safely in mine-infested waters while minimizing magnetic and acoustic signatures. The vessel integrates advanced underwater detection and neutralization technologies, including:

• High-frequency hull-mounted minehunting sonar

• SCOT combat management system designed by OBR CTM

• Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) such as the Saab Double Eagle Mk III

• Polish-made unmanned underwater drones, including the Morświn system

• Automated handling systems for deploying unmanned platforms

The ship displaces around 850 tons, measures 58.5 meters in length, and is powered by two MTU diesel engines enabling a top speed of 15 knots. A highly automated bridge and mission center reduces crew workload and enhances operational efficiency during prolonged missions.

Czajka, like other vessels in its class, is designed for mine detection, classification, sweeping, and neutralization, supporting Polish and NATO requirements for keeping sea lanes open and protecting coastal approaches, ports, and critical infrastructure.

A Success Story for Poland’s Domestic Shipbuilding Industry

The Kormoran II project—conceived, designed, and built entirely in Poland—has become a flagship example of national defense industrial capability. The vessel’s construction involves more than 30 Polish companies, with OBR CTM providing mission systems integration, and Remontowa Shipbuilding serving as the primary industrial lead.

The program highlights Poland’s push toward strategic self-reliance, ensuring that critical naval technologies remain under domestic control. It also supports thousands of jobs in the Tricity region and beyond, reinforcing the country’s broader defense-economic ecosystem.

Progress of the Kormoran II Fleet

The launch of Czajka is part of the second batch of three vessels ordered under a 2020 contract worth over 1.6 billion PLN. The fleet’s development timeline is progressing steadily:

• ORP Kormoran (601) – commissioned 2017

• ORP Albatros (602) – commissioned 2022

• ORP Mewa (603) – commissioned 2023

These first three are fully operational with the 13th Minesweeper Squadron in Gdynia and actively participate in NATO exercises such as BALTOPS and Northern Coasts, where Poland has been praised for its advanced minehunting capabilities.

The second batch includes:

• ORP Czajka (launched December 2025)

• ORP Jaskółka (expected launch mid-2026)

• ORP Rybitwa (currently under hull construction)

Poland plans to finalize the class with eight ships by 2028, ensuring continuous coverage of its coastal defense zone and fulfilling NATO MCM commitments.

Growing Importance of Mine Countermeasure Forces

Rear Admiral Jarosław Ziemiański, Commander of the Polish Navy, has repeatedly emphasized that mine warfare is now a frontline capability in the Baltic theater. NATO allies—including Germany, Sweden, and Finland—view Poland’s expanding mine countermeasure fleet as a crucial component of the alliance’s maritime resilience.

The Baltic Sea, one of the world’s most mined bodies of water due to remnants of two world wars, remains vulnerable. Modern threats include:

• Covert mine-laying

• Drone-based underwater incursions

• Sabotage targeting pipelines and communication cables

• Hybrid operations near critical maritime infrastructure

ORP Czajka and the broader Kormoran fleet are designed to counter these evolving challenges.

Part of a Larger Naval Renewal Effort

The launch comes as Poland prepares major decisions on the future shape of its navy. Beyond minehunters, Warsaw is advancing:

• The Miecznik frigate program, with construction underway for three multi-role frigates based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design

• Plans to relaunch the Orka submarine program, focusing on next-generation conventional submarines

• Coastal defense enhancements, including new missile systems and unmanned maritime platforms

Together, these programs aim to deliver a modern, balanced fleet capable of deterring adversaries and fulfilling NATO missions.

Strengthening Poland’s Position in the Baltic

As ORP Czajka begins outfitting and trials, analysts note the symbolic and practical significance of the launch. It demonstrates Poland’s commitment not only to maritime security, but also to leadership within the Baltic region—where naval readiness and underwater situational awareness have become strategic priorities.

With its minehunter fleet expanding rapidly, Poland is positioning itself as a key contributor to regional stability, capable of securing essential sea routes and protecting infrastructure in one of Europe’s most contested waters.