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Lithuania Strengthens Its Anti-Tank Capabilities with Acquisition of Carl Gustaf M4.
The Defence Materiel Agency, under the Ministry of National Defence of Lithuania, has signed an important contract with the Swedish manufacturer SAAB Bofors Dynamics AB to acquire Carl Gustaf M4 84mm antitank recoilless rifles and spare parts for EUR 14 million. The weapons are expected to be delivered between 2025 and 2026.
The Carl Gustaf M4 is the latest version of this versatile and powerful weapon system. (Picture source: Lithuanian MoD)
The Carl Gustaf M4 is the latest version of this versatile and powerful weapon system. Designed to address a wide range of battlefield needs, the Carl Gustaf M4 is a formidable weapon for engaging both armored targets and enemy personnel. With a solid history of use in various conflicts, the Carl Gustaf system has proven its ability to neutralize armored tactical vehicles, thus providing infantry units with a crucial advantage in maneuver warfare.
Compared to its predecessors, the Carl Gustaf M4 is notably more compact and lighter, making it easier to use, transport, and integrate into different combat scenarios. Its reduced size and lighter weight increase the flexibility of its deployment in various environments, thereby improving the operational effectiveness of the Lithuanian armed forces.
This acquisition comes at a strategic time as Lithuania continues to modernize its military capabilities in response to evolving security challenges. The Carl Gustaf M4 will complement the country's existing arsenal, contributing to the effectiveness of combined arms tactics and strengthening the defense against armored threats in a variety of operational contexts. It is expected that this weapon will play a central role in enhancing Lithuania's defense capabilities, particularly in improving the tactical flexibility and firepower of infantry units.
The Carl Gustaf is a versatile weapon system designed to meet a variety of needs on the battlefield. It is an 84mm recoilless rifle capable of launching a diverse range of ammunition to engage different types of targets. Among the types of ammunition available for the Carl Gustaf are high-explosive (HE), high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), anti-structure munitions (ASM), illuminating shells, and multi-target (MT) rounds. This wide range of projectiles allows the operator to adapt to various threats, from main battle tanks and armored vehicles to bunkers and other solid structures.
The Carl Gustaf offers high armor penetration effectiveness, with rockets weighing between 3.1 and 4 kg and capable of penetrating between 400 and 500 mm of armor. This level of performance is especially useful against fortified and armored targets, allowing the weapon to neutralize major threats encountered on the battlefield effectively. With a combat weight of less than 7 kg, it remains light enough to be maneuvered and used in various environments while still being powerful enough for devastating strikes.
The Carl Gustaf's target engagement range extends from 300 to 1,000 meters, offering great flexibility during operations. The weapon is equipped with open sights, as well as an optical sight with a laser rangefinder and an image intensification system, enabling the operator to target effectively at long distances. The system requires two operators: a gunner and a loader, allowing for optimal coordination in target engagement. With a length of 1,000 mm, the Carl Gustaf is compact enough to be easily transported and used while remaining effective in a variety of combat situations.
The Carl Gustaf M4 is equipped with advanced sights, ensuring accuracy and operational efficiency in all conditions. Its versatility, particularly in its use against both hard and soft targets, makes it an essential asset for both defensive and offensive operations. The Lithuanian forces are likely to view the introduction of the M4 system as a key step in enhancing their ability to conduct rapid maneuvers and counter armored threats.
The contract also includes the provision of spare parts, ensuring that the Lithuanian military has the means to maintain and sustain the weapon system over the long term. This strategic purchase reflects Lithuania's commitment to strengthening its defense posture and ensuring the preparedness of its armed forces, while also consolidating its defense cooperation with Sweden.
The proven effectiveness of the Carl Gustaf M4 on the battlefield, combined with its ease of use and tactical versatility, makes it a highly sought-after weapon for modern armies. Lithuania's acquisition will undoubtedly enhance the operational effectiveness of its forces, particularly in scenarios requiring rapid and decisive action against armored threats.