Saab’s FFV Ordnance has emerged as the lowest bidder (L1) in the Indian Army’s procurement of 450 Carl-Gustaf M4 84mm rocket launchers. The company reportedly quoted approximately ₹71.87 crore for the requirement, with its proposal selected as part of the Army’s efforts to strengthen infantry firepower with lighter and more versatile shoulder-fired weapon systems.
The procurement is expected to cover 450 Carl-Gustaf M4 launchers along with accessories, spares, training, and associated support requirements. The Army placed the requirement under the Buy (Indian) category, with an emphasis on indigenous manufacturing. Saab’s facility in Jhajjar, Haryana, is set to become the company’s first Carl-Gustaf manufacturing site outside Sweden.
Following approval for 100% foreign direct investment, Saab has stated that it will collaborate with Indian suppliers as part of its broader Make in India strategy. The initiative is expected to expand the company’s manufacturing footprint while increasing the involvement of domestic defence suppliers.
The Carl-Gustaf M4 is Saab’s latest-generation 84mm recoilless weapon. Weighing approximately 6.6–7 kg without sights and accessories, the launcher is significantly lighter than earlier variants, making it well suited for infantry units required to carry the weapon during extended operations.
The Army’s requirement also calls for compatibility with modern sighting technologies, including digital fire-control systems and red-dot sights. These capabilities are intended to improve target acquisition and increase the probability of achieving a first-round hit.
The Carl-Gustaf M4 also incorporates Picatinny rails and improved ergonomics, enabling greater flexibility in integrating accessories while making the system easier for troops to handle.
The L1 designation further strengthens Saab’s expanding defence manufacturing presence in India. The company has previously indicated that its Jhajjar facility will employ advanced production technologies, including carbon-fibre winding and modern sighting-system manufacturing, while building a wider network of Indian sub-suppliers.
