450 Carl Gustaf M4 Rocket Launchers

The Indian Army has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in July 2026 for the procurement of 450 Carl Gustaf Mark-IV (M4) 84mm lightweight rocket launchers. The acquisition is part of the Army’s ongoing infantry modernisation programme, aimed at replacing older weapon systems with lighter, more advanced, and highly mobile platforms. The Carl Gustaf M4 is a versatile shoulder-fired recoilless rifle capable of engaging armoured vehicles, bunkers, fortified positions, and enemy personnel across diverse combat environments.

The procurement also supports the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by promoting defence manufacturing within the country.

What is the Carl Gustaf M4?

The Carl Gustaf is an 84mm recoilless rifle developed by Saab, a leading defence company based in Sweden. The Indian Army has been operating the M2 and M3 variants since the 1970s, while the M4 represents the latest generation of the weapon system.

One of the key advantages of the Carl Gustaf M4 is its lightweight design. The launcher weighs less than 7 kilograms, significantly lighter than the M2 (approximately 14 kg) and M3 (around 10 kg) variants. The reduced weight improves soldier mobility, particularly during high-altitude operations, counter-insurgency missions, and rapid deployment scenarios.

The weapon is capable of firing multiple types of ammunition, making it suitable for anti-armour operations, bunker destruction, urban warfare, and infantry support.

Indigenous Manufacturing in India

A major highlight of the procurement is that the Carl Gustaf M4 will be manufactured in India at Saab’s production facility in Reliance MET City, Jhajjar, Haryana. The manufacturing unit received approval under the 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) framework and is recognised as India’s first fully foreign-owned defence manufacturing facility.

Construction of the plant commenced in March 2024, with the objective of producing advanced defence equipment domestically. The project strengthens India’s defence industrial base while reducing dependence on imported military hardware.

Operational Features and Strategic Importance

The Carl Gustaf M4 is designed to operate efficiently in temperatures ranging from –20°C to +50°C, making it suitable for deployment in extreme conditions, including the Himalayan region and the deserts of Rajasthan.

According to the RFP, deliveries are expected to begin within 12 months of signing the contract. The procurement package also includes 15 years of product support and a 24-month warranty, ensuring long-term operational readiness and maintenance support.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Indian Army issued an RFP for 450 Carl Gustaf M4 launchers in July 2026.
• The Carl Gustaf is an 84mm shoulder-fired recoilless rifle developed by Saab (Sweden).
• The M4 variant weighs less than 7 kg, compared to M2 (14 kg) and M3 (10 kg).
• The Indian Army has operated Carl Gustaf M2 and M3 variants since the 1970s.
• The Carl Gustaf M4 will be manufactured at Saab’s facility in Reliance MET City, Jhajjar, Haryana.
• The plant is India’s first fully foreign-owned defence manufacturing unit, established under 100% FDI approval.
• The launcher can operate in temperatures from –20°C to +50°C.
• The contract requires delivery within 12 months, 15 years of product support, and a 24-month warranty.
• Munitions India Limited (MIL) manufactures a wide range of ammunition compatible with the Carl Gustaf weapon system.