Finnish Vainamoinen-Class Coastal Defense Ship

Finland’s Väinämöinen-class coastal-defense ships concentrated heavy artillery in compact hulls intended for local waters. Väinämöinen and Ilmarinen served during Finland’s wartime campaigns, but Ilmarinen was lost to a mine in 1941. These vessels were not oceanic battleships; their design reflected the geography and defensive requirements of the Baltic and Finnish archipelago. The loss of Ilmarinen demonstrates how mine warfare could eliminate a heavily armed ship without a conventional gun battle. Väinämöinen survived the war and later passed to Soviet control, giving the sister ships very different careers. Both ships carried 254 mm guns in twin turrets. Their shallow coastal setting and heavy weapons reflected Finland’s need to defend maritime approaches close to home.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in Global War 1946, Global War 1985, and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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