Saab Secures $7.8 Million Order for Carl-Gustaf Systems from US Air Force
Saab has received a new order from the U.S. Air Force for its Carl-Gustaf M4 systems, valued at $7.8 million, with deliveries scheduled for 2026. This is the first time the U.S. Air Force has ordered this system, joining other branches of the U.S. armed forces, such as the Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command (SOCOM), which have long utilized the weapon.
The Carl-Gustaf M4 is a modern version of the portable, multi-role recoilless rifle developed by Saab. In service since the early 2010s, it builds on the legacy of earlier models like the M2 and M3. The M4 is designed to offer increased tactical flexibility, allowing soldiers to effectively address a wide range of battlefield challenges.
It is lightweight, weighing under 7 kg, and measures less than one meter in length, making it highly maneuverable for rapid deployment in various combat scenarios. The M4 is compatible with a broad range of ammunition, including anti-armor, anti-structure, and anti-personnel rounds, and can be equipped with various sights, such as red dot sights, telescopic sights, and advanced fire control devices.
The Carl-Gustaf M4 system is currently in service with numerous military forces worldwide, although specific numbers in service are often classified or vary by country. Its primary capabilities include engaging armored vehicles, fortified positions, and enemy troops, as well as support tasks such as creating smoke screens or illuminating areas during nighttime operations. The M4’s compatibility with advanced programmable ammunition and fire control systems further enhances its effectiveness, making it a versatile and reliable weapon for modern infantry units.
The Carl-Gustaf system, known as MAAWS in the United States, has been in service with the U.S. military since 1990 and was designated as a Program of Record for the U.S. Army in 2013. This multi-purpose, reloadable system has proven effective in various combat scenarios, providing soldiers with the necessary tactical flexibility on the modern battlefield.
Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab in the U.S., expressed confidence in the system’s ability to meet the needs of the U.S. Air Force. He emphasized that this order reflects Saab’s ongoing commitment to evolving its products to meet the diverse requirements of its customers, ensuring that U.S. airmen are equipped with a versatile weapon system that offers a tactical advantage in various combat situations.