In February 2025, Sweden based Saab AB, an aerospace and defence company has completed the delivery of its latest disposable Anti-tank 4 (AT4) weapons, enhancing the advanced weaponry capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces.
- This follows a contract awarded in 2022 for the delivery of around 2000 units of AT4 weapons, which is now actively in use by both the Indian Army (IA) and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
- In addition to the AT4 deliveries, Saab announced plans to establish a manufacturing facility for the Carl-Gustaf anti-tank weapons system under Saab FFVO India Private Limited, located at MET City in Jhajjar, Haryana, with operations expected to begin by the end of this year or early next year.
Note: This is the first such project in the defence sector which has come through the 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) route.
About AT4 weapon:
i.The AT4 is a lightweight, man-portable, fully disposable anti-tank weapon, designed for ease of use and handling. It is highly effective against armored fighting vehicles, providing a reliable solution in various combat scenarios.
ii.It is an 84 millimeter(mm) unguided anti-armour weapon and manufactured by Saab Bofors Dynamics, a subsidiary of the Saab Group.
iii.It weighs approximately 9 kilograms (kg) and has an effective range of 200 meters (m)
About Carl Gustaf facility:
i.In March 2024, Saab announced the start of construction on a new fully owned manufacturing facility in Haryana.
ii.The facility will produce the latest sighting technology, advanced carbon fiber winding, and handle the final assembly of the Carl Gustaf M4 (CGM4), a recoilless multi-role rocket system widely used by infantry.
About CGM4:
i.The CGM4 is a reusable, reloadable recoilless rifle that has been used by the IA since 1976 as the main shoulder-fired weapon.
ii.It is a man-portable, shoulder-launched weapon system to meet a wide range of modern combat needs of infantry forces
iii.The ammunition for the CGM4 varies in range, with a maximum reach of up to 1,500 m. The anti-tank ammunition has an effective range of 500 m.
About Saab AB:
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Micael Johansson
Headquarters – Stockholm, Sweden
Founded – 1937
