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Saab Australia Secures Carl-Gustaf M4 Support Contract for Australian Army.
Saab Australia (Saab) has signed a contract with the Commonwealth of Australia to provide in-country operational support for the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon system. This initial four-year contract, with two options for two-year extensions, covers maintenance, repair, and supply of spare parts for the 84mm Carl-Gustaf M4 recoilless rifle, along with specific training for Australian Army operators and maintainers.
Adopted by numerous armed forces worldwide, including the United States, Sweden, and Australia, the Carl-Gustaf M4 provides tactical flexibility by enabling soldiers to respond to diverse battlefield threats while minimizing equipment weight. (Picture source: Saab)
The Carl-Gustaf M4, developed by Swedish company Saab, is the latest generation of versatile anti-tank rocket launchers designed for modern infantry units. This lightweight 84mm system weighs under 7 kg, making it easier to handle in the field. Its compact design, with titanium and carbon fiber components, enhances portability for soldiers, allowing them to engage a wide range of targets, from tanks and armored vehicles to bunkers and buildings. Compatible with various advanced sighting systems, the M4 provides increased accuracy day or night and can fire multiple types of munitions, including anti-armor and anti-structure rounds, with a maximum range of up to 1,000 meters depending on the ammunition type.
Adopted by numerous armed forces worldwide, including the United States, Sweden, and Australia, the Carl-Gustaf M4 provides tactical flexibility by enabling soldiers to respond to diverse battlefield threats while minimizing equipment weight. Operated by a two-person crew (gunner and loader), it ensures effective firepower with the capability to penetrate up to 500mm of armor, even when protected by reactive layers.
This partnership, part of the Short Range Anti-Armour Weapon System (SRAAW) support contract, will enable Saab to provide agile and timely operational support for the Carl-Gustaf M4, incorporating updates within the product roadmap and setting a foundation for potential future acquisitions. The program aims to deliver ongoing capability improvements to meet the requirements of modern battlefields.
Valued by Australian troops over decades, the Carl-Gustaf M4 is now in service in more than 40 countries. This adaptable and portable system equips dismounted soldiers with versatile firepower suited to a range of threats. Saab Australia’s Managing Director, Andy Keough CSC, emphasized the Carl-Gustaf system’s proven effectiveness on the battlefield, calling it a vital capability for ensuring operational effectiveness.
Saab, as a sovereign provider with a solid track record supporting Australia’s land defense sector, leverages a skilled local workforce, rapid response capabilities, and unrestricted product access. This allows Saab to deliver solutions swiftly, meeting the Australian Defence Force’s requirements.
Beyond advanced weapon systems, Saab’s support for the Australian Army includes expertise in ground-based air defense, land force camouflage, combat management systems, and deployable health infrastructure. Through this comprehensive approach, Saab reinforces its commitment to providing solutions aligned with the Australian Army’s strategic needs.