The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense has signed a significant contract to acquire Carl Gustaf anti-tank grenade launchers, manufactured by the Swedish company Saab Bofors Dynamics.
The goal is to replenish the stocks of the Lithuanian Armed Forces and modernize the country’s military arsenal.
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Contract Details
According to the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense, the €14 million contract includes not only the Carl Gustaf M4 grenade launchers but also spare parts. The exact number of units purchased has not been disclosed.
In 2022, Lithuania joined a joint framework agreement with Sweden, Estonia, and Latvia, allowing the country to acquire these systems at reduced prices due to the larger volume of combined purchases.
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Features of the Carl Gustaf M4
The Carl Gustaf M4 is the latest version of a grenade launcher designed to combat armored vehicles and destroy targets in shelters or firing positions. Developed in 2014 to replace the earlier M2 (1964) and M3 (1986) versions, the M4 offers significant improvements:
- Reduced Weight: Weighing only 6.7 kg, it is 30% lighter than the M3 and less than half the weight of the M2.
- Advanced Aiming System: Includes a laser rangefinder that calculates distance and elevation angle for greater accuracy.
- Versatile Ammunition: Capable of firing anti-tank, high-explosive fragmentation, smoke, illumination, and specialized fortification-destroying grenades.
History and Impact
The Lithuanian Army has been using the Carl Gustaf system since the mid-1990s. The acquisition of new units represents an important step in modernizing the country’s defensive capabilities, particularly in the context of increasing geopolitical instability in the region.
In addition to meeting its own needs, Lithuania has also played an active role in supporting Ukraine by sending ammunition for grenade launchers as part of its military assistance.
Strategic Importance
The contract strengthens collaboration among Nordic and Baltic countries, promoting interoperability between regional armed forces. By acquiring a versatile and advanced technology like the Carl Gustaf M4, Lithuania continues to bolster its defense capabilities against modern threats.
Source: Lithuanian Ministry of Defense kam.lt. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
