Saab has secured an order from the US Department of Defense (DoD) to supply its Carl-Gustaf man-portable weapon system.
Valued at $5.4m, the order requires the company to provide the 84mm recoilless rifle system, which is designated as an M3 multi-role, anti-armour anti-personnel weapon system (MAAWS) in the US.
The order has been awarded under the terms of Saab’s framework contract, announced with the DoD in August 2014.
Saab North America president and CEO Michael Andersson said: “The Carl-Gustaf, with its broad range of munitions types, has repeatedly proven itself in the most demanding environments and it is a versatile, powerful tool for the soldier. This order demonstrates the strong belief by the customer in the system.”
Known as M3E1 in the US, the Carl-Gustaf M4 system helps dismounted soldiers to respond to multiple challenges, ranging from neutralising armoured vehicles to engaging enemies in buildings.
The lightweight, multi-role, man-portable shoulder-fired weapon can be used with a variety of ammunition, ranging from armour penetration and anti-personnel, to ammunition for built-up areas.
The latest version features a reduced weight of 7kg, as well as special features such as smoke and illumination.
Its clip-on telescopic sight is mounted on a 'Picatinny rail', which allows soldiers to use thermal sights or image intensifiers for night scenarios.
There are four different range scales on the rear sight, and both front and rear sights are fitted with illuminated dots for night operations, according to the company.
Image: The Carl-Gustaf system helps dismounted soldiers to respond to multiple ground threats. Photo: courtesy of Saab.
