The Polish Navy has launched the first of two signals intelligence (SIGINT) ships being built by Swedish defense manufacturer Saab.
Named after the Polish mathematician who broke the code of the German Enigma encryption machine during the Second World War, the ORP Jerzy Różyck will gather intelligence data across the spectrum of maritime electronic intelligence, including from naval stations and other vessels.
The vessels are also expected to conduct hydroacoustic reconnaissance against underwater threats from both manned and unmanned vessels.
“Today marks a significant milestone with the launch of ORP Jerzy Różycki as a testament to the power of cooperation and shared vision,” President and CEO of Saab Micael Johansson said.
“This project exemplifies how nations around the Baltic Sea, with similar needs and experiences, can come together to develop solutions that benefit us all.
It demonstrates the type of advanced technology and capabilities that will be imperative for Europe to stand strong against emerging threats and ensure the safety of our people and societies.”
Delfin Program
The vessels are part of the Delfin program to replace a pair of aging Project 863 Moma-class radio reconnaissance vessels commissioned in 1975 and 1976.
An approximately 620-million-euro ($730-million) contract was awarded to Saab for the project in November 2022, with delivery expected by 2027.
Construction of the first ship began in April 2023 and of the second in November 2023.
The ships are being built at Polish shipbuilder Remontowa Shipbuilding’s shipyard in Gdansk.
Expected Features
Sharing design and technological solutions with the Swedish SIGINT vessel HMS Artemis, the Delfin-class vessels are expected to be 74 meters (243 feet) long and 14 meters (46 feet) wide.
HMS Artemis has a displacement of around 2,200 tons and features 35 cabins and 40 bunks.
It can accommodate a crew of up to 40 people.
Meanwhile, the Polish vessels are expected to feature high autonomy and endurance, which will allow them to operate for an extended period without the need to visit a port.
