Skjold-class

The Skjold class consists of six light stealth missile corvettes operated by the Royal Norwegian Navy. Produced by Umoe Mandal, the class was developed to replace the Hauk class. The prototype vessel entered service in 1999. While originally designated as motor torpedo boats, the Royal Norwegian Navy reclassified them as corvettes in 2009 due to their seaworthiness and the absence of torpedo systems.

The design utilizes surface effect technology, featuring a catamaran hull with a skirted compartment. This air cushion reduces wave slam and drag. Construction uses glass fiber and carbon composite materials. For radar cross-section reduction, the vessels feature a faceted profile with flush-mounted hatches and windows. Radar absorbent materials are integrated into the load-bearing structures rather than applied as external cladding. Propulsion consists of gas turbines driving waterjets. The production design was modified from the prototype to include reinforced hull materials for fire resistance and a strengthened foredeck to accommodate a multi-role cannon.

The Royal Norwegian Navy commissioned six vessels: Skjold, Storm, Skudd, Steil, Glimt, and Gnist. Between 2001 and 2002, the United States Navy and Coast Guard leased the lead ship for evaluation. The vessel was operated by a Norwegian crew out of Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek during this period. In 2020, the Norwegian government began a mid-life upgrade program for the class. These updates were intended to sustain the fleet's availability until 2030 and to compensate for the loss of the frigate Helge Ingstad. The upgrades include modernized sensor systems and weapons control consoles.