Lithuania signs contract for Swedish Carl Gustaf anti-tank grenade launchers

Lithuania's Ministry of Defense announced on January 2 that it has signed a contract with Swedish defence manufacturer SAAB Bofors Dynamics AB to purchase Carl Gustaf M4 anti-tank grenade launchers.

The deal, worth 14 million euros, includes the delivery of 84mm anti-tank launchers and spare parts, scheduled for 2025 to 2026, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The Carl Gustaf M4, a modernized version of the well-known Carl Gustaf weapon system, is designed to target armoured vehicles and enemy personnel. According to the Ministry, the M4 model is more compact and lighter than its predecessors, enhancing its ease of use in the field.

"The new M4 model is shorter and lighter, making it simpler to operate, while maintaining the high-performance capabilities the system is known for," the Ministry's statement read.

These grenade launchers are highly effective in both supporting unit manoeuvres and taking out armored targets, with a proven track record in various combat situations.

Lithuania's defence spending continues to grow, with the government allocating approximately 2.5 billion euros for defence this year, or just over 3% of its GDP. Additionally, the new government has raised its borrowing limit for 2025 to 800 million euros, potentially increasing defence spending to 4% of GDP.

In related developments, Lithuania's Defense Minister Dovile Šakalene has discussed the potential purchase of cluster munitions, both for national use and for transfer to Ukraine. "There is motivation to purchase cluster munitions, and we are in contact with other countries to explore this option," Šakalene stated.

In July 2024, Lithuania withdrew from the Convention on Cluster Munitions, citing the need to enhance its national defence capabilities. This move is part of Lithuania's broader strategy to bolster military readiness. President Gitanas Nauseda has also called for further defence spending increases, aiming for 5.5% of GDP to support plans for establishing a motorized infantry division by 2030.

By Tamilla Hasanova