Saab Delivers AT4 Rocket Launchers to Indian Armed Forces, Explores Gripen E Fighter Jet and Carl-Gustaf Rifle Production in India
Swedish defense company Saab has recently completed the delivery of its AT4 anti-armor weapon system to the Indian Armed Forces, marking a significant enhancement in India's military capabilities. This milestone precedes the upcoming Aero India 2025 event, where Saab is expected to showcase its advanced defense technologies.
AT4 Anti-Armor Weapon System
The AT4 is a lightweight, single-shot, disposable shoulder-fired weapon designed to neutralize armored threats and fortified positions. Key specifications include:
- Caliber: 84 mm
- Weight: Approximately 6.7 kg
- Length: 102 cm
- Effective Range: Up to 300 meters for point targets
- Maximum Range: 500 meters for area targets
The AT4 is available in various configurations to address different combat scenarios:
- High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT): Capable of penetrating up to 450 mm of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA).
- High-Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP): Versatile against bunkers, buildings, and light armor, with selectable impact or delayed detonation.
- High Penetration (HP): Enhanced penetration capability, reaching up to 600 mm of RHA.
These variants provide flexibility for infantry units to effectively engage a range of targets on the battlefield.
Carl-Gustaf Recoilless Rifle Production in India
Saab is advancing plans to manufacture the Carl-Gustaf recoilless rifle at its facility in Haryana, India. This initiative represents a landmark as the first defense sector project under the 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) route in India. The Carl-Gustaf system is renowned for its versatility and effectiveness in various combat situations, offering a range of ammunition types for anti-armor, anti-structure, and anti-personnel roles.
Gripen E Fighter Jet Proposal
In pursuit of the Indian Air Force's Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) contract, Saab is promoting its Gripen E fighter jet. The Gripen E is a state-of-the-art multirole aircraft designed to counter and defeat advanced threats. Notable features include:
- Advanced Electronic Warfare Suite: Provides 360° spherical coverage and electronic attack capabilities, enhancing survivability in contested environments.
- AESA Radar and Infra-Red Search and Track (IRST): Equipped with cutting-edge sensors for superior situational awareness.
- Weapon Capacity: Ten hardpoints capable of carrying a diverse array of weapons, including up to seven Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAMs) and two IRIS-T short-range missiles.
- Performance: Maximum speed of Mach 2 at high altitude, with supercruise capability allowing sustained supersonic flight without afterburner.
Saab has committed to delivering the first Gripen E to the Indian Air Force within three years of securing the contract, emphasizing indigenous content and full technology transfer. This proposal aims to bolster India's aerospace industry and address the Air Force's requirement to augment its fighter squadron strength.
Additional Initiatives
At Aero India 2025, Saab plans to showcase its next-generation NLAW anti-tank weapon, though it is not currently being offered to the Indian Army. The company is also promoting its r-TWR deployable system, a mobile air traffic control solution designed for rapid deployment in battlefield environments. The r-TWR can be installed within an hour and is easily transportable by aircraft such as the C-130J.
Saab's ongoing initiatives and participation in Aero India 2025 underscore its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Indian Armed Forces and contributing to the nation's defense capabilities.
