Saab to supply additional Carl-Gustaf anti-tank ammunition to Swedish army.

Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for deliveries of ammunition for the recoilless Carl-Gustaf rifle. The order value is approximately SEK 3 billion and deliveries will take place during 2026-2030.
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The wide range of ammunition types available for Carl-Gustaf makes it flexible and able to handle any situation on the battlefield (Picture source: Saab)

The order is placed within a framework agreement between Saab and FMV which allows purchases of Saab’s Ground Combat weapons Carl-Gustaf, AT4 and NLAW, including ammunition and equipment.

“We are proud to continue to deliver our world-leading solutions to Sweden and contribute to the Swedish defence capability. This order secures the Swedish Armed Forces supply of Carl-Gustaf ammunition and is a result of the weapon’s capacity and robustness,” says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.

The multipurpose Carl-Gustaf weapon has been in use by the Swedish Armed Forces since 1948. During the year 2018, FMV signed a contract for deliveries of the latest iteration of the weapon; Carl-Gustaf M4. The wide range of ammunition available for Carl-Gustav further strengthens the system’s tactical flexibility, enabling faster engagement, increased hit probability and greater effectiveness for the soldiers.

The Carl-Gustaf is a highly versatile and widely renowned recoilless rifle system that has evolved over the years to become a prominent weapon in the arsenal of numerous armed forces worldwide. Designed to engage a wide range of targets, from armored vehicles to fortified structures, the Carl-Gustaf offers exceptional flexibility and adaptability on the battlefield. The weapon operates on a recoilless principle, where a counter-mass is expelled at the rear to offset the recoil generated by the projectile's launch. This recoilless design not only enhances accuracy but also allows for relatively lightweight and portable systems that can be effectively deployed by individual soldiers or small teams.
The Carl-Gustaf features a break-open breech-loading mechanism, enabling quick and straightforward reloading in various combat situations. Its ammunition consists of various types, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds, high-explosive (HE) rounds, smoke rounds, illumination rounds, and anti-structure rounds. This wide array of ammunition options grants users the ability to engage and neutralize different targets effectively, making the Carl-Gustaf a versatile tool in a range of operational scenarios.

In terms of specifications, the Carl-Gustaf typically weighs around 14 to 16 kg (30 to 35 pounds) depending on the model and configuration. It has an effective firing range of up to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet), with the latest variants boasting improved accuracy and extended range capabilities. The ergonomically designed shoulder stock and pistol grip ensures comfortable handling, while the sighting system allows for precise aiming and target acquisition.

The Saab Carl-Gustaf has earned a stellar reputation for its reliability, firepower, and adaptability. It has been widely adopted by numerous armed forces, including those of Sweden, the United States, and various NATO countries. The weapon has proven its effectiveness in various conflicts and peacekeeping operations, where its ability to engage both armored and soft targets has been instrumental in ensuring mission success and protecting troops.

Defense News May 2023