US Army Selects Saab’s AT4 Anti-Armor Weapons for Its IAM Program to Replace XM919
On September 2, 2024, the U.S. Army signed an agreement with Saab, the Swedish defense manufacturer, for an indefinite delivery of AT4 anti-armor weapon systems under an IDIQ (indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity) contract. This contract, valued at an estimated $494 million over the next five years, is part of the XM919 Individual Assault Munition (IAM) program, which aims to replace the U.S. Army’s current range of light launchers, also designated as ‘XM919,’ including the M72, M136, and M141 models.
Saab’s AT4 system, first used by the U.S. Army in 1985, is a lightweight, shoulder-launched anti-armor weapon with an 81-millimeter caliber. It is designed to give soldiers the ability to deliver direct fire against armored and protected targets. The model selected under this contract is the “Combined Space Tandem Warhead” (CS-TW), which offers a range of 200 kilometers, making it the version with the shortest range within the AT4 system family.
The U.S. Army’s IAM program is focused on modernizing its capabilities while simplifying operations for its soldiers. Erik Smith, president and CEO of Saab in the U.S., highlighted that this new IAM solution “enhances capabilities, reduces combat burdens, and is specifically designed to meet the needs of U.S. customers.” Saab has taken a combat-proven system and optimized it further to meet modern requirements.
The AT4 system is used by U.S. forces to protect vital infrastructure, fixed defense points, and strategic depots. To date, Saab has delivered more than 700,000 AT4 systems to the U.S. armed forces. This system has also been adopted by numerous other countries, including Argentina, France, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Brazil, Denmark, Greece, and others. It is particularly valued for its ability to effectively neutralize lightly armored vehicles, fortified positions, and entrenched enemies.
As a shoulder-launched munition, the AT4 system increases the lethality and survivability of infantry units. It provides direct fire capability to neutralize enemy personnel in armored platforms or entrenched in bunkers, fortifications, caves, and masonry structures. Additionally, it allows for the suppression of enemy forces in lightly armored vehicles, making it a versatile and valuable tool on the modern battlefield.
The IAM program is crucial for the U.S. Army as it continues to adapt its forces to the changing realities of ground combat. The flexibility and effectiveness of the AT4 system make it an ideal response to the modern soldier’s tactical needs, ensuring a smooth transition to more advanced technologies. The selection of the AT4 system underscores the U.S. Army’s ongoing commitment to equipping its soldiers with the necessary tools to meet battlefield challenges while ensuring their safety and operational effectiveness.