Saab begins construction of new Carl-Gustaf M4 anti-tank weapon manufacturing plant in India.

The Swedish defense giant Saab has started construction of a new plant dedicated to the production of the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon system. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on March 4, 2024, in Haryana, marking a new chapter in defense collaboration between India and Sweden.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Carl Gustaf anti-tank recoilless rifle. (Picture source: SAAB)

This initiative follows the Indian government's approval of 100% foreign direct investment in defense, leading to the creation of Saab FFVO India Pvt Ltd. This subsidiary will oversee the operations of the facility, symbolizing a significant leap forward in the local manufacturing of advanced defense technology in India.

Görgen Johansson, the Senior Vice President and Head of Saab's Dynamics sector expressed pride in this venture, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the Carl-Gustaf and the Indian armed forces. "Building our first facility for Carl-Gustaf outside of Sweden in India underlines our commitment to delivering top-notch defense products made in India," Johansson said.

Håkan Jevrell, the State Secretary for Foreign Trade from Sweden, emphasized the importance of this project as a milestone in Sweden-India bilateral relations. "The establishment of a fully foreign-owned defense production facility by Saab in India demonstrates the strong ties and mutual trust between our countries," Jevrell noted.

The chosen location for the facility is MET City in Jhajjar, Haryana, a state known for its industrial capabilities, potential partners, and skilled workforce. Saab's strategy includes partnering with Indian suppliers to align with the "Make in India" initiative, ensuring that the production not only meets the needs of the Indian armed forces but also incorporates cutting-edge technologies like advanced sighting systems and carbon fiber winding.

The Carl-Gustaf M4 is an infantry weapon of Swedish origin, known for its versatility and ability to adapt to a variety of military missions. Designed to fire 84 mm caliber ammunition, this equipment is particularly effective against a range of targets, including armor, buildings, and stationary targets, thanks to a cartridge that weighs between 3.1 and 4 kg. The Carl-Gustaf M4 stands out for its lightness, weighing less than 7 kg when empty, making it relatively easy to carry and maneuver in the field by infantry.

With a length of less than 1,000 mm, the M4 is designed to be compact, facilitating its use in confined spaces or demanding environments. The initial velocity of the projectile varies between 230 and 255 meters per second, providing the weapon with the ability to engage targets at considerable distances. The Carl-Gustaf M4's rate of fire can reach up to 6 rounds per minute, allowing for a quick response against various threats.

The effective firing range of the Carl-Gustaf M4 varies depending on the target: up to 400 meters for tanks and between 700 and 1,000 meters for buildings and stationary targets. This flexibility in engagement range ensures that the user can adapt to different combat situations. In terms of armor penetration, the M4 can pierce between 400 and 500 mm of armor.

The Carl-Gustaf system, a cornerstone in the Indian Army since 1976, is recognized for its versatility and effectiveness as a shoulder-fired weapon. The establishment of this facility represents a significant step towards self-reliance in defense production and the strengthening of defense ties between India and Sweden.